THE MYTH OF GURKHA RIFLEMAN CARRYING PRIVATE

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An interesting addendum to this thread comes from "The Lushai expedition"

Published in 1873 , Written by Lt. H.G. Woodthorpe of the Royal Engineers who served alongside the 44th Bengal infantry. { who went on through there linage to be the become the 8th Gurkha rifles eventualy.}



In full context.



Which when compared to the material published in this & the related closed thread are rather fascinating I think?

linky

{Which of coursr was closed quite correctly by are overworked unrewarded moderaters who perform such a thank less task day in or day out for no reward, due to the personal feelings clearly displayed within it. {Something that clearly shouldnt happen, within forum space...} {My apologies for that.}

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As a further addendum, one of my 3 top favorite 19th century Newspaper block prints of Goorkhas with kukri, {Which I bought, to frame & display alongside my kukri collection.} Its nearly 2ft wide & exhibits great skill in wood block engraving! Its a great picture to have! {Digital copies can be found elswere on line, many original copied from my example. }

Is of the Lushai expedition...




The 44th make up {not the 43rd. {mentioned in another thread.}which at that time was a seperate unit to the 44th... The clues in the number } are mentioned in the official Army "AG circular no. 117" dated 9th september 1864.

As quoted in "The Linages & Composition of Gurkha Regiments in British Service." {published by Gurkha museam.}





So clearly a mostly Goorkha & Assam Hillmen based unit, would be highly skilled at sheltor building, rather than the 22nd Punjabis, who while usefull solders wouldnt be so used to such craft & work.

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[kronckew]

i note that the rifleman in the photo on the far left appears to be cheating by attempting to blow his bamboo stem in half with his rifle. sadly, by turning his head to avoid splinters, he appears to be about to shoot the bugler in the foot. interesting photo.

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