Nicholson’s Obelisk. A monument to Brigadier-General John Nicholson, north of Rawalpindi (b/w photo)

Nicholson’s Obelisk. Photograph collected by Randolph Bezzant Holmes (1888-1973). The granite monument to Brigadier-General John Nicholson is situated north of Rawalpindi in modern day Pakistan and was erected in 1868. John Nicholson (1821-1857), was first commissioned into the Bengal Infantry in 1839 and spent his whole career in India. Speaking several Indian languages, he served in many of the frontier areas in India as well as distinguishing himself in both Sikh Wars. A tall and imposing figure, Nicholson was known as a fearless commander who inspired those he led. When the Indian Mutiny (1857-1859) broke out in May 1857 Nicholson once again led his men with great courage and skill, culminating in his appointment as commander of the main storming party during the Siege of Delhi (September 1857). The attack was a success but Nicholson received a fatal wound while leading his men and died some nine days later, on 23 September.