McCLYMONTS AT THE BATTLE OF BEERSHEBA

This is a portrait of the three sons of Thomas McClymont who was the first born of the Manuka McClymonts. In the front is Norman while Cecil sits to the left of Alexander. Although both Cecil and Norman returned to Australia, Alexander was shot and killed during the historic charge of the Light Horse at Beersheba 31 October, 1917. Norman rode beside his brother Alexander in the charge. Many of the family have this photograph and talk of this history. One of Cecil's grandaughters has the original diary that Aleaxnder kept during the campaign. It is said that he wrote in it up to an hour before the charge. We have asked if she could send us some copies of extracts for us to read at the reunion.

Two decendants were named by their fathers in honour of Alexander.

Anyone can access the war menorial site and see the fantasticly detailed picture of the charge of the light horse in which those two men have been identified by people who returned from that scene. You can purchase both this actual image and the charge picture. Go to www.awm.gov.au/about/collections/photographs.asp

This photo was donated to the War memorial by Joan Illing the daughter of Norman.

Cam Banks( grandson of Robert and son of Judith) actually found Alexander's grave in the cemetery at Beersheba when travelling in the 70s. He had not known the history till then.

FUTHER READING.

Rowan McClymont (grandson of Robert, son of Alex -Sana) called to say he has just read a book about Beersheba written by a Paul Daley who mentions Alexander's grave and many other interesting details about the charge and those who served there.

Andrew Palmer, Penny's husband, has just read the account the battle and much more called 'The Australian Light Horse' written by Roland Perry.It was published late last year and has many photographs as well as the one you can buy from the War Museum.