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Set of Miniature Implements

Item details: Five miniature metal implements, each with a handle made of a brass bullet.

The identity of the maker of this curious collection of tools is unknown. They were made by a soldier with time on his hands during the Siege of Ladysmith (1899 – 1902) during the South African War, also known as the Second Boer War. The implements include a knife, fork, spoon, button hook and bradawl. A bradawl is a tool used in woodworking, specifically to aid in creating small indentations to aid the insertion of a nail or screw.

The Siege of Ladysmith (November 2nd, 1899 – February 28th, 1900) was a key turning point during the Second Anglo-Boer War in South Africa. British forces, led by General Sir George White, were besieged in the town of Ladysmith by Boer forces. The siege lasted for 118 days, with the Boers cutting off supplies and bombarding the town. Despite repeated Boer attempts to force a surrender, British troops held out until a relief force, commanded by General Redvers Buller, broke through in February 1900. The successful relief of Ladysmith was a turning point in the war, boosting British morale and signalling the decline of Boer resistance. The siege is remembered for the hardships endured by the defenders and the significance it held in the broader conflict.

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