Sir George Smith - Hero of Ladysmith

"George Stuart White was born in Portstewart but the family lived in Broughshane for many years.

White first achieved distinction in the Afghan War of 1878-80. He was awarded the Victoria Cross for his heroism in the Battle of Charasia in India in 1879 and was knighted in 1886 for his military service in Burma. As commander in chief in India (1893-98), he was an instrument of Great Britain's 'forward' policy of combating any Russian advance toward India by aggressive campaigns, military and diplomatic, in the borderlands. His greatest fame came in the South African War when he defended Ladysmith against a 118-day siege by the Boers (1899-1900). He became governor of Gibraltar (1900-1904) and was made field marshal in 1903.

There is a memorial in the Broughshane churchyard.

Location of plaque: Portstewart"