*Brick Souvenir from Hougomont Farm, Battle of Waterloo – 2nd Coldstream Guards Defence – 18 June 1815*
A rare battlefield souvenir constructed from an original brick reputedly recovered from the walls of Hougomont Farm — one of the most fiercely contested positions during the Battle of Waterloo. The brick is mounted upon a period ebonised wooden plinth with gilt-painted inscriptions to each face:
Front: “HOUGOMONT FARM 18TH JUNE 1815” Reverse: “2ND COLDSTREAM GUARDS”
The brick itself is of characteristic 18th–19th century red baked clay with mineral inclusions and age-related surface encrustations, exhibiting historic cracking entirely consistent with long-term exterior exposure. The underside of the plinth shows strong age, oxidised fasteners, and period wear to the four turned wooden feet.
Approx. measurements: Base 24.1 cm x 13.8 cm | Total height 8.5 cm
Historical Note Hougoumont — defended primarily by the 2nd Battalion Coldstream Guards — was the decisive hinge of Wellington’s right flank. Napoleon’s repeated assaults failed to take the farm, consuming thousands of his best troops and contributing directly to his ultimate defeat. Following the battle, sections of Hougoumont’s shattered masonry became prized relics. Victorian officers and pilgrims to Waterloo often commissioned commemorative stands such as this, honouring specific regiments involved in the defence.
The spelling “Hougomont” used here reflects contemporary and 19th-century British usage prior to the later adoption of the French spelling Hougoumont — a detail strongly indicative of period manufacture.
*Condition* The brick is stable but displays multiple surface cracks, edge losses, and weathering attributable to its long service life and later handling — all expected for original building material from Hougoumont. The wooden base shows scratches, burnish, and wear to the ebonised finish, with minor losses to gilt lettering but all text clearly legible. Feet remain secure and sit well. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
Authentic Hougoumont architectural relics with a specific Coldstream Guards attribution are highly desirable—a tangible survivor of the most iconic defensive action of Waterloo.
