Original Set of Items. One of a kind. This is an amazing set of Surgeons “TOOLS.” I hate to think what some of these probes were used for. There are about 25 pieces in this wooden cased set that measures 18″ X 10 1/2″ X 3 1/2″, and weighs a substantial 15 lbs when full. Contained in two steel trays for easy access are a variety of tools, including various forceps, clamps, a saw, and other tools. The wood case is very well constructed and bears the Owners name on the brass cover plate on the lid:
Thomas J. Crean
SURGEON
IMPERIAL LIGHT HORSE
1899
Thomas Joseph Crean, born April 19th 1873, served in the Imperial Light Horse on 18th December 1901. During an action with the Boer Commander De Wet at Tygerskloof this officer attended the wounded British soldiers, in spite of being wounded himself, twice. The second wound, in the stomach, was quite serious and at the time appeared to be fatal.
However, Crean in fact recovered, and on March 12th 1902 received the VICTORIA CROSS from King Edward VII at St. James’s Palace in London. He went on to serve in WWI and was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for his service. He became an International Rugby player and sadly died in 1923, aged only 50 years of age. A printout of his Internet research is included.
A spectacular Surgeon’s Field Operating Set of a decorated British Officer.