In 1873, Steele was the third officer sworn into the newly formed NWMP. His badge, c.1873-1904, in gilt and silvered metal, was estimated at £150-250 but hammered down at far more: £5000.
He was also head of the Yukon detachment during the Klondike Gold Rush, and commanding officer of Strathcona’s Horse (a British army unit to be recruited in Canada and sponsored by Lord Strathcona) during the Boer War.
War record
What appeared to be the draft typed copy of the report book Diary of Lord Strathcona’s Corps. South Africa War. 1900-1901, bound in red leather, was another impressive performer.
It was signed in black ink on the first page Major A. M. Jarvis C??, B Squadron, Strathcona Corp, Pretoria South Africa 18th June 1906, and page 120 was signed in ink S.B.Steele Col. Offered with a gilt and red silk sword knot, a suede pouch with silver plaque engraved Lt Col Steele, Commander Strathcona Horse 1900, and two pieces of braid, this lot guided at £300-500 sold for £3200.
