Overdeput

Mervyn you have rendered me a great service in giving me such valuable information on my Iklwa spears. I passed on the details to my 14 year old granddaughter to supplement her history studies - her history teacher was very appreciative. A different war but my Granddaughter visited the Menin Gate and WW I battlefields last year so I have sent her details of my father's Small Book, medals, mess fork (Stamped with Reg. Number) and his Barnsley Pals Yorks and Lancs 14 th Bat. 2nd War Diary from 1 st. July 1916. I am pleased that our history is still being taught to the younger generation and they are aware of what their forbearers suffered. You enquired whether I had any other items of interest - hmm. I lived in Holland many years and at a flea market in Delft approx. 24 years ago I thought I had found the perfect companion for my Iklwas, a Royal Welsh Fusiliers 23rd brass and copper bugle purportedly found in South Africa. I have treasured it for many years believing in it's authenticity only to be shocked into reality by an Internet search which informed me that there is a production line somewhere in India / Pakistan churning out these bugles. I tell you this so that you may more understand my appreciation in receiving your authentication of my spears. Again many thanks and please maintain your excellent service.

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2013/post-15669-0-41730900-1368114873.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2013/post-15669-0-45269400-1368115000.jpghttp://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2013/post-15669-0-52085900-1368115119.jpg

Approximately 44 years ago I purchased what I thought were two Assagai fighting spears and a ceremonial spear. I have only recently decided to do a littlle research into their origin and I thank my lucky stars that I came accross GMIC and the wealth of information you hold and share. Comparing my Iklwas with your data base I belive they are basic weapons but genuine, the binding appears to be grass or reed not wire. The third spear is carved from wood and I assume was a ceremonial or decorative piece - all three have been heavily varnished sometime in the past. I attach photos of my small collection and would be most greatful for any information which would help determine the source and age of the pieces. Although I purchased the three together I understand that the wooden spear may be of different origin to the metal spears. The sizs are; Blades 30cm with 90cm Shaft, 20cm with 114cm Shaft Wooden Blade 57cm with 90cm Shaft. If the photographic resolution is inadeqauate I will try to make better ones. (Sorry having a problem uploading jpeg photos, will try later)