Full medal write up
AFRICA GENERAL SERVICE 1902-56, CLASP, JUBALAND ‘S B BALL. A.B., H.M.S. TERPSICHORE’
180053 Stephen Byron Ball was born in Ballarat, New South Wales, Australia, on 7 May 1879. He joined the Royal Navy on 13 June 1894 and joined H.M.S. Impregnable as a Boy 2 Class and after various postings, he rated AB on 14 April 1898. Sub rated Diver on 26 January 1900, he joined H.M.S. Terpsichore on 17 February 1901, serving until April 1904, taking part in the South Africa War (Medal) and also the Jubaland Expedition in 1901 (medal). He purchased his discharge in 1904. Recalled to service during the Great War (medal trio) he was demobilised in 1919.
Ball’s occupation is listed as a Diver and Dockmaster in his service record and a newspaper article in Western Times - Thursday 26 April 1906, regarding the appointment of a Bathing Ground Superintendent, lists Ball as a candidate, noting he:
“Had been in his Majesty’s service, where he had great experience in swimming and diving; had a though knowledge of rowing, sculling and life saving. He was employed as diver during the Exe Bridge contract…”
A note from a previous sale sais he was killed by a Stingray in Portsmouth harbour. The later as of yet unconfirmed.
Only 45 Jubaland clasps issued to H.M.S. Terpsichore.
Condition NVF, overall contact wear. Original ribbon, attached to suspension for two medals, the other presumably the QSA. An unusual award to a Diver.