A Boer War medal pair awarded to Bandsman William Frederick Tarling, serving with the British South Africa Police.

The group consists of the Queen’s South Africa Medal and King’s South Africa Medal, correctly named, and accompanied by a comprehensive research file compiled over time. The paperwork appears to trace Tarling’s service and later life, including census material, discharge documentation, and correspondence from archives.

Tarling is recorded as having served from July 1900 to July 1902, with his role noted as a bandsman. The research suggests he later returned to the UK, with further references to civilian life and musical work.

 A well-attributed and researched example to a named individual, with supporting documentation giving additional context.

Medals

Queen’s South Africa Medal (QSA)

• Named to: 1116 Bandsman W. F. Tarling
• No clasp confirmed from paperwork provided

King’s South Africa Medal (KSA)

• Named to: 1116 Bandsman W. F. Tarling
• With two clasps: South Africa 1901 & South Africa 1902

Both medals are consistent with entitlement as shown in the included roll and research material.

Condition

The medals show honest age and wear, as expected for issued examples.
Naming remains clear and legible.
General condition is in keeping with a circulated Boer War pair.

Research & Paperwork

A large quantity of photocopied research accompanies the medals, including:

• Medal roll confirmation
• Service details and attestation references
• Discharge and record sheets
• Census extracts
• Correspondence with archives and researchers
• Notes relating to Tarling’s life after service

The paperwork appears to have been compiled over a number of years and provides a useful base for further research if desired.

Overall

A straightforward Boer War pair to a British South Africa Police bandsman, offered with an extensive research file.

While not a scarce or decorated entitlement, the group benefits from clear attribution and supporting paperwork, making it a solid and honest example for the collector looking for an identified individual rather than an anonymous medal.

Historical Note

The British South Africa Police played a key role in Southern Africa during the Boer War period, operating as a paramilitary force in the region. Bandsmen formed part of regimental and police bands, providing music for both ceremonial and morale purposes, and were often enlisted under the same terms as other ranks.

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