A Life Well Lived
Allan Gordon
Allan Gordon
Battlefield Guide & Historian
Beloved by all who walked the fields with him
Allan Gordon was a registered tour guide whose life was defined by curiosity, generosity of spirit, and a deep passion for South Africa's battlefield history. His particular interests lay in the South African War, the Anglo-Zulu War, and the First Boer War—conflicts he studied not only through books, but through the lives and stories of the people who fought in them.
A keen amateur historian and an accomplished collector of military medals, Allan believed that history should be experienced, not merely observed. Through his knowledge of medals, their provenance, and the individuals to whom they were awarded, he created a truly unique and interactive battlefield touring experience—one that connected landscapes to human stories.
"Guests were encouraged to engage, ask questions, and even bring along medals from their own collections—allowing history to feel immediate, personal, and alive."
After retiring from a distinguished corporate career, Allan devoted himself fully to this lifelong passion. He spent over 40 years in the IT industry, holding senior executive roles and concluding his corporate journey as a Hospitality Industry Executive for a large Johannesburg Stock Exchange–listed company. Yet it was in history, storytelling, and teaching that he found his greatest joy.
Beyond his professional achievements, Allan was also a successful sportsman, having earned National and Springbok colours in Lawn Bowls—an accomplishment that reflected his discipline, dedication, and competitive spirit.
Allan was especially fascinated by the people behind the medals. He took great pride in helping others trace the movements and experiences of family members who may have fought in the Anglo-Boer or Anglo-Zulu Wars. His work offered collectors and descendants alike a rare opportunity to connect treasured artefacts with the physical places where history unfolded more than a century ago.
This website remains online as a tribute to Allan Gordon—his passion, his knowledge, and his desire to keep history accessible and meaningful. It stands as a lasting record of a life dedicated to remembrance, discovery, and sharing stories that deserve never to be forgotten.
Newsletters & Publications
Allan's Written Archive
Allan shared his knowledge generously through newsletters and articles sent to his mailing list over many years. All of his writings are preserved here in full — free to read, free to download, forever.
Select any edition to read it in your browser, or download for your personal archive.
Select any edition to read it in your browser, or download for your personal archive.
Select any edition to read it in your browser, or download for your personal archive.
The Experience He Created
About the Battlefield Tours
Allan's tours were unlike any other. They were built around human connection — the medal in your hand, the hill before you, and the stories that bound them together.
Making it Real
The Anglo-Boer Wars of 1880–81 and 1899–1902 — Allan brought these conflicts to life through the stories of soldiers on both sides.
South African Wars
From Isandlwana to Rorke's Drift, Allan walked guests through the landscapes and human dramas of all the South African Wars.
Medals & Living History
Guests brought medals from their own collections — Allan could trace a man's movements from a single clasp, turning history into a conversation held on the very ground where it unfolded.
Remember Him
Leave a Tribute
Allan touched many lives through his passion for history and his warmth as a guide and friend. If he meant something to you, please share your memory here.
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