Historical information

Alexander Ross was born in Castlemaine in 1879. He became a member of the 4th Battalion Infantry Brigade and was noted for his soldierly qualities.
When volunteers were called for the First Contingent, Mounted Infantry Unit going to South Africa, he was one of the first to enlist.
In the Battle at Rensburg he was shot through the chest and died shortly after. Major Eddy and Lieutenant Roberts also died in the same action.
About a fortnight before he was killed Corporal Ross had mailed the Queen's Chocolate Box he had received, to his father. In it was a letter which included information "...I am quite well and have not seen action yet.
I remain
Your affectionate son
Alexander Ross"

Physical description

Digital portrait from "In Memory of the Gallant Officers and Men of Victoria in Transvaal War, 1899-1900".