WITH PEACE restored at last at the end of the Boer War, the nation gave a rapturous hero's welcome home from South Africa to Lord Kitchener this week a century ago.

Under the headline "The Conquering Hero's Homecoming," the Journal of 1902 described the scenes: "Magnificent weather prevailed at Southampton as the 'Oratava,' with Lord Kitchener on board, made her way towards the disembarkation quay.

"Here, there was a crowd of spectators and a guard of honour but it was soon learned that only Lord Kitchener would land. Owing to an outbreak of smallpox on the ship, all the returning troops on board would not yet be allowed to disembark.

"Lord Kitchener landed amid a great demonstration of enthusiasm. He looked bronzed and wonderfully well in his khaki field uniform and staff cap.

"As Lord Kichener proceeded through the gaily decorated shed on the quay-side, the public who had assembled in large numbers, received him with wild enthusiasm.

"Lord Kitchener then drove off, attended by civic and military officials, to receive the Freedom of the Borough of Southampton.

"Later in the day, Lord Kitchener arrived at Paddington Station which was thronged by privileged persons, and he was greeted by the Prince of Wales who welcomed the victorious General in the name of the King. Lord Kitchener was later entertained to dinner by the Prince of Wales at St James's Palace."

In the same 1902 edition of the Journal, "Crowquill," in his comment column, wrote something of an epitaph on the Boer War:

"The conflict in South Africa has taught many lessons and given much useful experience. The sacrifices have been great but there is vast compensation, with much instruction of permanent value.

"The bounds of the Empire have been widened, and all the enormous interests within them are now secure. The Boers, whose jealousy and ambition made them our enemies, having been overcome in hard fight, now promise to be loyal, contented, industrious fellow citizens, willing even to take a share in imperial defence.

"The Colonies have helped to show to the world what is meant by the power of the British Empire.

"While officers and men have performed their duty with fortitude, deficiencies have been disclosed and wrong systems exposed. The Auxiliary Forces have largely contributed to the success of the British Army, and all over the country a cordial welcome has been given to those who volunteered for the war and who have returned with honourable records.

"Among those who went out from Worcestershire was Captain Checketts who proved that a Volunteer officer can be a capital soldier in time of need. By zealous and efficient work, he gained promotion to the rank of Brigade Major, and in every way justified the confidence placed in him.

"He commanded the Pershore Rifle Corps before going out to South Africa, and Pershore - proud of his spirit and distinction - has most cordially greeted him on his return. Captain Checketts is a conspicuous example of the Volunteer ardour and ability which has helped assure the protection and security of this nation and Empire."