The Lancers; from the Boer War, to the Great War

Speaker: Phil Watson
The First VC Of The European War, 1914. Captain Francis Grenfell, 9Th Lancers At Audregnies, 24 August 1914

British Lancer regiments, like the 5th, 9th, 16th, and 17th, transitioned from traditional mounted roles in the Boer War (1899-1902), participating in famous actions like the Relief of Kimberley and Modder River, to the mechanized warfare of the Great War.

During the First World War they served as mobile cavalry for reconnaissance and shock actions before eventually amalgamating as the cavalry arm evolved.

Their experience bridged cavalry's heyday with the dawn of modern conflict, showcasing their adaptability from horse charges to crucial supporting roles on the Western Front, as seen with the 5th and 9th Lancers.

All That Was Left Of Them (17Th Lancers At Moddersfontein)
17th Lancers at the Battle of Modderfontein. Painting by Richard Caton Woodville, Jr. (1856-1927)

Members and non-members of The Western Front Association are equally welcome. Any new visitors are guaranteed a friendly atmosphere and a warm welcome from a group of like-minded enthusiasts.

Event organiser: Lincoln & North Lincolnshire branch
16 February 2026 19:30 to 16 February 2026 20:30
The Royal Naval Association Club, Coulson Road, Lincoln, LN6 7BG
Branch contacts
Mike Credland
(Branch Chairman)
Email Mike Credland
Peter Garland
(Branch Vice-Chairman)
Email Peter Garland

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