In early 2021 Moth Cedric from Warriors Gate, the MOTH Museum in Durban, was approached by a member of the public who recently relocated to KZN from Gauteng. He transported an unusual item being a grave stone with his household, that he had acquired from a dump site in Springs, Gauteng. This member of the public had this item with him I am informed, a couple of years already.

Moth Cedric then informed Moth Mike Lee, Chairman of Moth Museums and Memorials,  who elected to try to find out more on the grave stone markers background. This grave stone clearly indicated a military history dating back to 1902. (2nd Anglo-Boer war period)

Moth Mike contacted the SA War Graves Commissioner to obtain further information on the name engraved on the grave stone.I was informed that this marker was reported missing for over 10 years from a war grave site in Krugersdorp (Burgershoop), Gauteng.

The grave marker indicated:

Colour Sergt. T. Wedderburn

The Kings Own Scottish Borderers

Died 8th September 1902

“Erected by his Comrades”

Moth Mike made contact with the Scottish Regiment Museum in the UK relating to CSgt. Wedderburn, who advised that this soldier passed away, as on record during the 2nd Anglo-Boer war of pneumonia and was buried in SA.

The regiment in the UK after consultation donated a sum of £300 (UK pounds) to enable the reinstalment of this grave marker.

Making contact with a local delivery and transport company through the MOTH National PRO,  who graciously transported the item back to Gauteng and the War Grave Commissions offices at no cost on behalf of the MOTH and the Museum.

Further planning time frame required, as well as Covid-19 restrictions prevented the reinstatement which was concluded on the 1st February 2022.

On the 1st February Andy Boden, National Chairman of the MOTH met with members of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, who reinstated the Cross.

The grave markers that are damaged in the cemetery.  

There are many of the Boer War markers damaged. While waiting for the cement to dry, many were restored on the day. A great service by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.