4th Essex During Boer War
The 4th Essex Battalion was embodied on 2nd May 1900 under the command of Lt Col F S Walker.
After receiving uniform and equipment the battalion proceeded by special train to Colchester where it will be stationed.
The embodiment of the 4th Essex occasioned ' a great dearth ' of labour in the agricultural districts and made farmers experience difficulties in getting men even when they paid higher wages than normal.
Thence, among other reinforcements, was despatched a mounted infantry company, composed of one section from each of the 1st Essex, 2nd Norfolk's, 4th Essex and 4th Norfolk's under the command of Captain E S Penrose.
In January 1901 the 4th Essex were among those Battalions to be selected to provide troops to line the route in London for the funeral of Queen Victoria.
On 30 June 1901 the battalion was inspected for the last time by General Gatacre and then the battalion was disembodied in July 1901.
