'Lieutenant T Melvill and Lieutenant N J A Coghill attempting to save the colours of 1/24th Regiment at Isandhlwana', 1879

Hand coloured lantern slide.

Lieutenant Nevill Coghill (1852-1879) and Lieutenant Teignmouth Melvill (1842-1879), of the 1st Battalion, 24th (2nd Warwickshire) Regiment of Foot, were killed attempting to defend their unit's Queen's Colour in the aftermath of the British defeat at Isandlwana on 22 January 1879. The Zulus pursued them as they attempted to carry the colour across the Buffalo River. Despite their brave efforts they were eventually overwhelmed.

Although 23 Victoria Crosses were won during the Zulu War, Coghill and his fellow officer had to wait until January 1907 to receive their posthumous awards.

One of 37 hand coloured lantern slides.