South Africa 1877-79 medal Bar 1879 awarded to Petty officer H.M.S. Shah, with an original rare box of issue named to him.

Description South Africa 1877-79 medal Bar 1879 awarded to Petty officer H.M.S. Shah, with an original rare box of issue named to him. South Africa 1877-79, clasp, 1879, “Shah” A. Burroughs. P.O. 1st Cl. H.M.S.; Original Box of Issue, A. Burroughs. P.O.1st Cl. Albert Burroughs was born in Stroud, Gloucestershire 14th August 1851. He joined the Royal Navy in 1866 just before his 16th Birthday and was signed up by his sister “Lucy” as both parents were stated as dead. He served on various vessels including Pallas, Vulcan, Elk, Serapis, and the training ships Duke of Wellington and Excellent until joining the HMS Shah on his 25th Birthday 1876. Albert was to witness the Battle of Pacocha in 1877, where the British frigate HMS Shah fired the first self-propelled torpedo in a real naval battle at the Peruvian ironclad Huáscar, though the torpedo missed, as the Huáscar outran it. This event marked a significant moment in naval history, despite being indecisive in combat, highlighting early use of advanced torpedo technology against a heavily armoured opponent. Albert served ashore with the Naval Brigade during the Zulu war of 1879 and was present at the action of Ginginlovu 2nd April 1879. Albert died 12th January 1886 at the young age of 35 years at Summer Street, Stroud, Gloucestershire whilst living with his sister Catherine and her family. Albert’s trade at the time was a Caffler (Rag and Bone Man) Condition is EF, a great looking medal with an original long length ribbon and the original Rare box of issue which is in very good condition for its age.