Full medal write up
SOUTH AFRICA 1877-9, CLASP, 1879 ‘1366. PTE C. ALDERMAN. 90TH FOOT.’
Charles Alderman was born at Andover, Hampshire in 1857. Posted to South Africa on 11 January 1878, serving throughout the Zulu War. Alderman was to India on 19 October 1879, were he was to serve for the next four years. Returning to Britain on 19 December 1883, he remained on Home Service until 12 September 1889.
The 90th saw service throughout the Kaffir War of 1877-8, seeing a good deal of action during the operations in the Waterkloof and Perie Bush. During the Zulu War of 1879, the 90th formed part of Wood’s column, taking part in the early war action at Zunguin Nek and being conspicuous for their actions at the engagements of Kambula and Ulundi. The battle of Kambula was a hard fought battle, the outcome of which was in the balance for a time. Ulundi turned out to be an outright victory. However although the British had won a series of battles, the spectre of Isandhlwana and the fear of the Zulu was still strong. This was of great concern, especially as far as the various ‘green’ regiments that took part. Along with the 13th Foot who they fought with side by side, the 90th by now the backbone of Lord Chelmsford’s force. By Wars’s end, these two regiments would see the most action of any British Regiment.
Note: Although entitled to the 1879, as noted on his service records, Alderman was in South Africa from January 1878 and would have fought at the action at Zunguin Nek and the battles of Kambula and Ulundi.
Condition VF some EK’s. Published roll incorrectly transcribed as ‘Aderman’ from original roll medal roll which is ‘Alderman’ as per medal and service papers.