Historical information

Captain Robert Westrup Salmon was born at Daisy Hill near Talbot 12 July 1862. He joined the Victorian Mounted Rifles in 1883; was commissioned Lieutenant in 1892 and appointed Adjutant (Volunteer) of 2nd Battalion VMR in 1892. He embarked with the 1st Contingent VMR to South Africa in 1899 with the rank of captain. At the battle of Jasfontein (Garsfontein) he was highly complimented in the London Times and other English newspapers for the skilful manner in which he handled the Mounted Infantry under his command. At the time of his death from Enteric Fever on 16 March 1900 at Naauwpoort South Africa he was Staff Captain of the Australian Regiment.
Captain Salmon was a councillor of the Borough of Talbot, trustee of the Racing Club and the Cemetery; member of the Board of Directors of the MUIOOF; past master of the Masonic Lodge; church warden of St Michael’s Church Talbot and secretary of the Fire Brigade.
The plaque was discovered by retired Military Police officer, Captain Watson and donated to 8/13 VMR Museum circa 1983.

Significance

Rare example of a memorial plaque to an officer of the Boer War. It is not known where or if it was originally mounted but a church building would seem likely.

Physical description

Large bronze plaque to the memory of Captain Robert Westrup Salmon who died of Enteric Fever while serving with the 1st Contingent Victorian Mounted Rifles during the Boer War. A framed display with photograph of the donor Captain Watson handing the plaque to Officer Commanding 'A' Squadron 8/13 VMR at Buna Barracks Albury in 1984 now accompanies the bronze plaque.

Inscriptions & markings

Cast in raised lettering surrounding a Victorian Mounted Rifles badge "The tribute of the Officers of the Victorian Mounted Rifles Non-Commissioned Officers & Men to the memory of Captain RS Salmon Talbot who died at Naauwpoort South Africa 16th Mar. 1900"