06/09/2026
🌍 Officers of the Abyssinia Campaign #15
As part of our recent project to research and reinterpret our collection objects from the 1868 Abyssinia Campaign, we've been looking at the lives of the King's Own Officers on the expedition. This week we have...
🎖️ Augustus Charles Twentyman (1836–1913)
Born in London on 27 April 1836, Augustus Charles Twentyman was the eldest son of William Holme Twentyman and Lelian Twentyman. Commissioned as an Ensign in the British Army in 1855, he rose to Lieutenant in 1858 and Captain by 1863. Twentyman served during the Abyssinian Campaign (1867–68), as a key figure for the logistic success. Indeed, rather than marching with the fighting columns, Twentyman was stationed at the Red Sea port of Zoulla as part of the Land Transport Train. This unit organised the movement of thousands of mules and camels that carried food, ammunition and equipment from the coast across difficult mountain routes to the advancing army. Indeed, the expedition’s success depended heavily on this vast logistical network. The static role was frustrating for Twentyman, who regretted missing the combat alongside his regiment. His experience highlights the importance and sacrifice of the logistical systems that made the campaign possible.
IMAGE: Baggage mules at Zula camp during the campaign.
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