Surrounding this vintage British Boer War tin are some of the major figures and heroes involved in the Boer War from 1899-1902: Major General Baden Powell, Lord Kitchener, General  Redvers Henry Buller, Lord Roberts, and Sir John French.  Boer War memorabilia to British regiments turns up frequently in Canada because, during the war, many young British soldiers formed strong friendships with Canadian soldiers.

The Boer War, also known as the South African War was Canada's first foreign war. It was fought between Britain (with help from its colonies and Dominions such as Canada) and the Afrikaner republics of Transvaal and the Orange Free State. Canada sent three contingents to South Africa, while some Canadians also served in British units. In total, more than 7,000 Canadians, including 12 nurses, served in the war. The Boer war was significant in Canadian history because it marked the first time Canadian troops distinguished themselves from Britain in battle overseas.