Nongqai Vol 17 No 8 – Col WB Lansdell
Short Biography: Colonel William Butler Lansdell (South African Police)
William Butler Lansdell: A Family Tribute and an Unfolding Police History
Via Hennie Heymans
The Nongqai regularly receives enquiries about former members of the South African Police, and these exchanges often reveal valuable personal histories. One such story is that of William Butler Lansdell, shared by his grandson, who today resides in the United Kingdom.
Although the family is still searching for more detailed information about Lansdell’s police career, the facts already known allow us to sketch a meaningful portrait of a man who served his country during a significant era.
Early Life and Family
William Butler Lansdell was born on 20 October 1898 in Bathurst. He lived a long life and passed away in Durban on 19 October 1978, just one day before his 80th birthday.
He was married to Louise Bissett, from whom he later divorced, and was the father of four children: Vivian, Kenneth, Maureen, and Dudley Lansdell.
Service in the South African Police
Although the full details of his police career remain to be uncovered, it is clear that Lansdell was a respected member of the South African Police. A notable highlight of his service was his formal presentation to the British Royal Family during the 1947 Royal Tour of South Africa.
He was personally introduced to:
- King George VI
- Queen Elizabeth
- Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II)
- Princess Margaret
This honour suggests that Lansdell served in a position of trust and distinction within the SAP.
Later Years and Personal Memories
By the early 1970s, Lansdell had retired from Pretoria. From around 1974, he lived with his family in Westville, where his grandson had the privilege of knowing him during the last four years of his life.
His grandson, born in Durban in 1970, was only eight years old when Lansdell passed away, yet those childhood memories remain vivid. He later emigrated to the United Kingdom in 2002, where he still lives today.
Photo Album
Colonel William Butler Lansdell (dark uniform, with hat) meeting George VI and Elizabeth (later the Queen Mother) and Princess Elizabeth (later Elizabeth II) and Princess Margaret, during 1947 Royal Tour of South Africa).
Col Lansdell in his office.
From my personal archive:
Fltr: Unknown, Commissioner Col. I.P. de Villiers, unknown, unknown, R.J. “Bobby” Palmer (later Commissioner), and Mr. Lansdell, circa 1930s.
