A rare original poster from the Liverpool Echo, dated May 18, 1900, is set to be auctioned in Birkenhead this Thursday, February 26, 2024. The poster commemorates Colonel Baden-Powell and the relief of the Siege of Mafeking, a significant event during the Boer War. This striking piece of history, which has come full circle, will be sold by Hamilton Square Auctioneers, where it originally belonged.
Sean Martin, co-director of the auction house alongside Chris Jarrey, shared that he acquired the poster approximately a decade ago. “I bought it about 10 years ago,” said Martin, who is based in New Brighton. “I was immediately interested because of the graphics and the fact that it was a Liverpool Echo piece. As a bit of local and national history, it really stood out.”
Chris Jarrey, from Oxton, emphasized the rarity of such artifacts. “It’s quite rare for something like this to survive. It was designed to be disposable and not really intended to last,” he noted, highlighting how these promotional posters were often discarded after a day’s use. The poster initially changed hands seven years ago, and Martin expressed his surprise at its return to the auction house following the passing of its last owner.
“I was delighted and shocked that it had made its way back to me. It’s not often you see something like that again,” Martin added. He described the poster as a significant piece of local and national history, making its upcoming auction particularly special.
The Siege of Mafeking lasted from October 13, 1899, to May 17, 1900, involving between 1,000 and 2,000 British troops under Colonel Robert Baden-Powell. The siege concluded with the British forces defending the town against a much larger Boer contingent, leading to widespread celebrations across the UK when it was lifted. Baden-Powell’s heroism during this conflict helped propel him toward founding the Scout Movement in 1907, drawing on his experiences from Mafeking.
Jarrey explained the significance of the event in a broader context. “It was a huge national event celebrated all around the country,” he remarked. While there is no confirmed direct link between Baden-Powell and Liverpool, the city’s status as a major port meant the war effort would have had a significant impact. “It would have been a huge relief for thousands of families across the North West whose sons and fathers were involved in the siege,” he added.
The auctioneers anticipate the poster will sell for between £200 and £400, with hopes it may reach the higher end of that estimate. “It’s early days, but the social media response has been very positive. People are excited to see it,” noted Jarrey. Potential buyers are expected to include collectors of military memorabilia, enthusiasts of the Scout movement, and those interested in local history.
The auction will take place at 11:00 hours on February 26, 2024, at Hamilton Square Auctioneers in Birkenhead. This event promises to attract attention from various circles, celebrating a piece of history that reflects a pivotal moment in both local and national narratives.
