Francis Morphet Twisleton

Francis Morphet Twisleton (17 February 1873 – 15 November 1917) was a New Zealand soldier who served in the Boer War and the First World War and became well known for his writings of soldiering life.

Born in England, he and his brother emigrated to New Zealand in 1895 and worked as farm labourers. In 1900, he joined the New Zealand military to serve in South Africa during the Boer War. He wrote extensively of life as a soldier and many of his letters were published in newspapers. After his service ended, he began farming and also was active in the Legion of Frontiersmen, eventually becoming its New Zealand commandant. During the First World War, he served at Gallipoli, on the Western Front, and in Palestine. He died of wounds received in an action in Palestine.

Early life Francis Morphet Twisleton, known as Frank, was born on 17 February 1873, in Settle, Yorkshire, England to a farmer and his wife. After completing his education, he went farming in Yorkshire. In 1895, he emigrated to New Zealand with his brother Thomas and worked his way around the country as a farm labourer.

Boer War In January 1900, he joined the Second New Zealand Contingent, which was being raised for service in the Boer War. He arrived in South Africa the following month. Thomas followed him to South Africa as part of the Fourth New Zealand Contingent but was killed in action in 1901. Frank served as a mounted soldier in the country until May 1901. He wrote home regularly and his letters were published in a number of newspapers in New Zealand. Following his return to New Zealand, these letters formed the basis of a book, entitled With the New Zealanders at the front: a story of twelve months' campaigning in South Africa. In the book, he commented extensively on the competence of British Army officers as well as the treatment of soldiers. He became ill with dysentery and was evacuated from Gallipoli in September 1915. He is buried at Ramleh War Cemetery, in Israel.

After Twisleton's death, the Legion of Frontiersmen recognised his services with the Pioneer Axe, its highest award. His widow was made an honorary lieutenant of the Legion.