The Diary of Trooper Frederick Edwards

Diary of 349 Trooper FH Edwards Fifth South Australian Contingent (Imperial Bushmen)

The Voyage

The Contingent comprising 23 Officers 296 NCO’s and men, with 292 horses left the wharf, Port Adelaide, on Saturday February 9th, 1901, on the “Troopship Ormazon” for Cape Town, South Africa, the scene of the Anglo Boer war declared October 11th, 1899, terminating June 1st, 1902

We anchored off the Semaphore at 6pm until Sunday, to the great disappointment of all the troops on board. A number of relatives and friends came out in launches, but were not allowed on board. Started the long voyage at 2.30pm

Monday 11th About half our number turned up for breakfast, the remainder being seasick, as the ship was rolling heavily in a rough sea. During “stables” one unfortunate man had his leg broken through a kick from a horse. The horses behaved splendidly, and soon settled down to the rolling of the ship.

Tuesday 12th Very rough sea, had to slow down and at times barely moved, during the 24 hours we progressed 17 miles. Hear that we shall have to call at Albany for water and provisions. Nothing of note occurred until we reached Albany on

Saturday 16th At breakfast time. The transport “Cornwall”, with the “New Zealanders” on board was anchored in the harbour, and as we slowly steamed past them, the troops cheered one another. Shortly after breakfast the Victorian Transport ”City of Lincoln” entered the harbour and anchored close by. Several other steamers came in during the day, making the harbour look very busy. At 2pm half our number went on shore, paraded several of the streets, and then dismissed for an hour. No cheering greeted us and everything was very quiet. The town and surroundings are very pretty, especially from the harbour. Arrived back at the ship at 4.30pm when the rest went ashore. They came back after tea many of them with a “load up”, numerous rows and fights in the different messes, 10 were put in the guard room, and afterwards “tried”, and sentenced to 2 hours “pack drill” every day before breakfast until the end of the voyage. This spoilt the days outing, also our chance of going ashore again, while in the harbour. The “Cornwall” had on board 17 Officers, 560 men and 580 horses. “City of Lincoln” 4 Officers and 52 men, in charge of a number of horses, the Victorian Transport “Argus” with 52 men in charge of 470 horses came in on Tuesday evening 18th and left Wednesday 19th. We steamed out at 8.15 am after staying four long weary days, everyone was glad when they heard the anchor being hauled up. Just at the entrance to the harbour we passed the “Orient’ with 1200 troops on board mostly Victorians, we were within hailing distance, and cheered loudly as we passed one another, not having horses aboard she was beautifully clean, quite a treat to see, much different to our boat. We lost 2 horses while in port, one had to be cut up, before it could be hauled up. As soon as we passed Breaksea Island , the boat started her rolling again, which soon upset a number of men. Land was kept in sight all day.

Saturday 23rd A very successful concert was held in the evening, all the items being well rendered. The mess deck was decorated with as many flags as could be found in the boat. Major Scriven acted as chairman.

Sunday 24th February 1901 Church parade at 11am conducted by Lieut Maurice. A row occurred between two of the Native crew, and not being satisfied with punching each other, drew knives and were not separated until one of them got a nasty cut on the arm.

Monday 25th Beautiful day with a calm sea . Rifle practice was held on the poop during the afternoon, at boxes which were thrown over at intervals. Some excitement was caused among the troops, when a shoal of flying fish, flew out of the water. At dinner time pickled ox tongue was served out, it was certainly very “strong” and when the “Officer of the Day” on asking men if there were “any complaints”, was shown four tongues tied with rope to the gangway, he walked around them, but holding his nose. There was nothing better for the troops, so we had to make the best of it. As for myself I fared better, being one of four orderlies to look after the Sergeants, 31 in number, who have a separate mess.

Tuesday 26th Broke nice and fine, but towards evening banks of dark clouds loomed up in the west, bringing along a heavy downpour of rain , with strong wind, causing a sea, that had the boat rolling nicely by tea time. Just after we had started to clean up after tea, the boat was brought “to the wind” causing her to give a few extra heavy lurches; we had a bad time of it, as the table, on which stood all the plates etc, was turned upside down with two pans of scraps, all of which rolled backwards and forwards as the vessel rolled, and to make matters worse one of our orderlies who was carrying up a bucket full of slops, fell, and our mess being at the foot of the stairs, received the lot, making it in a nice mess, we all had a laugh and took it in good part. Extra piquets were put on, on account of the rough night. At 1.30am on

Wednesday 27th the ships whistle sounded the alarm, but the only one who turned out was the Major, who thought that a man had fallen overboard. It was to alarm the piquets (who had all gone to sleep) to attend to a horse that had fallen down. In the afternoon we were instructed what to do in the case of a “Fire” or “Man Overboard”. Rough sea all day.

Thursday 28th: 26o42: S 90o7 E Boat still rolling heavily. No more washing to be done until further orders, short of water.

Mar-01

Friday March 1st, Fine day, calm sea.

Saturday 2nd: 26o39 S: 81o48E 2075 miles from Albany. Instructions on how and what to carry on horseback when in the field. Horse rug to be properly folded and placed under saddle on horses back, own blankets and WP Sheet on back of the saddle, overcoat and spare boots on pommel, change of clothes in offside wallet, curry comb, brush etc, near side, nosebag, shoe pouch, hanging from saddle. Another successful concert held in the evening, 28 items on the programme. During the night a heavy storm of rain came on suddenly, drenching all those who were sleeping on deck.

Sunday 3rd : 26o 48 S: 78o1 E 2280 miles from Albany

Monday 4th: 26o45 S: 74o14 E 2480 from Albany. Heavy squalls of wing and rain during the day. One of the men, when ordered to do something by an Officer, refused to do so, he was told as to what the result would be, was put in the guardroom, and afterwards court martialled, sentenced to 12 hours pack drill, fatigues etc. During the afternoon, he fell from the pantry roof on to the main deck, and sustained concussion of the brain, and did not regain consciousness for several days. Early in the night, while most were sleeping on deck, a very heavy storm broke and everyone was wet through before they could scramble down the hatchway to find that the troop deck was flooded, there was nothing else to do but make the best we could by sleeping on the tables and forms for the rest of the night .

Tuesday 5th. Pouring with rain all the morning. No parades or inspections, between decks in a terrible mess, wet hammocks and blankets all over the decks. Rough sea, with waves continually breaking on board. Buckets, mess tins, plates careering from one side of the mess deck to another. Another man fell from the pantry roof on to the Vet Surgeon’s head, both had a severe shaking, but nothing serious

Wednesday 6th. 26o59S 67o 10 E 2870 miles from Albany. Ship rolling heavily, no trouble to get from one side to another, just balance, and slide over. Our table was again upset at breakfast, and a stew pan full of curry was spread all over the deck, causing a good laugh, and a nice mess. There is always plenty of cheering when anyone falls with a pan full of food.

Thursday 7th . 3067 miles. Very heavy thunderstorm broke over us before breakfast, we watched it coming for fully half an hour, it was a grand sight, banks of black clouds rolling up, throwing their shadows on the water, and the wind lashing the calm sea into foam, shrieking through the rigging, the rain came down in torrents, completely flooding the mess decks. Soon after breakfast, we sighted a ship under full sail about 10 miles off our starboard bow. We altered our course and came up with her at 11o’clock, as we passed within about 150 yards from her, our “mate” spoke through the speaking trumpet, and was asked to report the ship ” all well” , was 41 days out from Port Pirie, bound for Queenstown, south of Ireland, for orders; could see her name quite plainly, the ship “ Craigmore”, she looked very nice indeed with all sail set. Mrs Walker (the Captains wife) took a photo of her as we passed, and our three trumpeters, saluted the ship with a call, after which all of us gave here cheers, answered by the crew of the “Craigmore”. Having seen nothing but sea for the last 15 days it was quite a novel and exciting time to see a ship in mid ocean. Rifle practice was held during the afternoon.

Friday 8th 27o 35 S 59o42 E, 3262 miles from Albany. On turning in at 9.30pm it was beautifully fine, stars and moon shining brightly, there was also a pretty rainbow in the sky. The first I have seen at night. About 2am we were awakened, with rain pouring down on us, a number of us laid there, as it looked as if it would soon clear off, when everything was wet through, we dived down below in our shirts, to pass the remainder of the night on forms or wherever there was room without any blankets.

Saturday 9th 29o42 S 55o42 E 3474 miles from Albany. Fine day with smooth sea. In the afternoon the “Dead Horse” was buried; on account of our being paid a month in advance, before we left our time is now up. A straw and canvas horse was made by some of the men on board. It was hauled up from below at 2.30pm and mounted on it was the midget of the contingent. The procession started from the poop, the horse being carried in front, then came about 40 of the men in different costumes. Sergt Edge the tallest man on board, in underpants, with as sack drawn over his shoulders was “Little Eva” . Lieut. Ferguson as a Kaffir looked the best, in “war paint”. After these came the rest of the men and marched to the Port side just forward of the “bridge”, where it was photographed by Mrs Walker. The “Special Burial Service” was read, the “first post” sounded, then a volley fired by 12 men, the “last post” –volley- then the “lights” out and another volley, the horse was then dropped overboard, amid great weeping and wailing. A minstrel concert was held in the evening and was a great success.

Sunday 10th 3683 miles Church at 11am Calm sea

Monday 11th 27o13S 47o13 E. Raining heavily. Orders, that anyone wished could have a bath on deck, a great number took advantage of it. Camera in use

Tuesday 12th 28o35S 44o16E 4084 miles. Vessel rolling heavily, in a rough sea. Showering best part of the day

Wednesday 13th 29o10 S 40o24E 4284 miles. Fine day, with smooth sea

Thursday 14th 29o59S 36o55 E 4482 miles. Raining during early part of the day, strong wind, with a moderate sea. Lecture in the evening on “Scouting and Outpost Duty” by Capt Hipwell, (since deceased)

Friday 15th 30o41S 33o 21E, 4677 miles. Fine day, smooth sea. A drilling competition was held at 2pm, between each troop, 10 in number, 20 picked men to the troop, judged by Majors Scriven and Edwards. First prize C4 while C2 and ER2 tied for second place, they were drilled again, and the second prize was awarded to C2. I was among the picked for our troop D3 and we came fourth, but there was no fourth prize. There were only 6 points difference between the whole of the 10 troops. A number who had seen the Imperial troops drill, said that the drilling today was equal to that done by the home troops. The prizes were 10 pounds first, 4 pounds second 2 pounds third. Great interest was taken in the competition. Then during the evening the Health of the Officers and Sergeants in charge of the winning troops was drunk. There were numerous speeches.

Saturday 16th. 30 o 2 S 29o 40 E 4884 miles. Raining heavily before breakfast. “Land Ahead” was shouted at 7.15am at which everyone rusher to where it could be seen. High, rugged land and about 25 miles off; we gradually drew neared in, and at dinnertime we were within 10 miles of the shore. The distance was narrowed considerably, and everything on shore could be seen distinctly. The country looking beautifully green. At 8.15 pm we passed East London, the lights from the town looking very pretty. Along this coast there is a “four mile current”, which is a great help to the boat, the sea is also a different colour. At tea time eggs were served out, and the noise made by the men, when anyone struck a “chicken”, was more like a huge farm yard than a troopship. There were numerous “chickens’. During “stables’, a horse slipped under the lower rail of its stall, and fell to the bottom of the hold about 20 feet breaking its neck, several men who were below sending up fodder, had a very narrow escape from being killed. This makes the fifth horse that we have lost, very few considering the time they have been on board, and the little space for them.

Sunday 17th: 34o 05 S; 25o45 E; 5124 miles. Strong head wind, and the heavy sea, kept continually breaking over the bow. Port Elizabeth was passed and signalled at 12 midday, could not distinguish the town on account of a haze over the land. Cape St Francis abreast at 6pm

Monday 18th Another very wet night. I did not wake up until wet through, went below and changed, passing the rest of the night, under a form, the only place I could find. Rough sea.

Tuesday 19th Very high land in sight at sunrise, Strong wind, with a rough sea.

Passed “Cape of Good Hope” at 10am, about 6 miles off. Sighted “Table Mountain” at 11am. The mountains along the coast are very rugged, and appear to be covered with low undergrowth`. Anchored in “Table Bay” at 4pm about half a mile from shore. There were over 60 vessels in the harbour, it was a grand sight. The town extend for over 3 miles along the lower land, near the beach, and also back towards the mountains. “Table Mountain” looms up at the back of the town, to all appearance about a mile away, but is almost 5 miles from the water’s edge. On its right looking from the harbour, rises “The Lions Rump”, and “Signal Hill”, which has a signal station at the top. Immediately after anchoring the Chief Transport Officer came off, and we heard that we were to leave for Port Elizabeth the next day, not being allowed to land here, on account of the plague. At night we witnessed a grand sight, the electric lights extending along the shore, Table Mountain shining out in the background, with the lights from the various vessels adding to the grandeur, making it a most magnificent sight. We left C Town on

Thursday 21st and arrived at Port Elizabeth on

Saturday 23rd at 11am. The work of unshipping the horses was started without delay, and the Kaffirs who had all to do with it had them all on board the lighters in a couple of hours. Kits etc were put into another lighter, and with the troops were towed to the jetty a short distance from the ship. The horses were trucked here, and the troops all served out with magazine rifles, bayonets, ammunition, mess tins, etc, etc. No one was allowed to leave the jetty. A number of ladies from the town, very kindly provided tea- cakes etc for us all, which was much appreciated.

In South Africa

At 6.30 pm we were all mustered and marched off to the railway station, a short distance from the jetty, here our train was waiting for us, 27 carriages and baggage truck, the horses etc were in a separate train, with a number of men to look after them. Before leaving, the ladies again provided tea for us. Orders that we must be ready in case of an attack, as the enemy had been troublesome along the line. We steamed out of the station at 8.15pm amid great cheering. Very little sleep that night, all full of excitement. It was a beautiful clear night and we soon got into the hilly country, steep grades and sharp curves. Passing “ Barclay Bridge”, Allansdale, we reached Ripon Bridge at 4.40am guarded by “Marshall Horse”

Sunday 24th. At Middleton our baggage train caught us, and we had our days ration issued out to us, bully and biscuits. “Witmoss”, 148 miles from Port Elizabeth was reached at 11.30am, very small place. There is a tunnel close to the station. “Craddock” was reached at 3.15pm; the horses were taken out here, fed and watered. Left again at 6.30pm. Crossed the “Fish River” Bridge at 8.20pm, guarded by 40 men of the 4th Lancashires. They fairly rushed the train to hear the latest news. “ Noorew Pooryt Junction” was reached at 5am

Monday 25th. Another engine was put on the back of our train here. “Arundle” was passed an hour later then “Rensburg”, reaching Colesbury Junction at 8.30am. A number of large cases were seen on the platform here, and when it was found out that they contained pineapples, a general rush was made and the boxes were soon smashed open, and the contents taken into the carriages, a “guard” was placed over the boxes, but not until all the fruit had been taken away. The Jew at the store, to whom they belonged, made a terrible fuss, but nothing came of it. He said that he would remember the “ Bushmen”. At “Norvals Pont” we had breakfast. Horses were taken out and exercised. There is a garrison of 1600 men here. Immediately after leaving the station, we crossed the long bridge over the “Orange River” and entered the “Orange River Colony” at 1pm 332 miles from Pt E. “Springfonteen at 4pm. At “Jaggersfonteen” which we reached at 6pm, we passed a large Kaffir Location Camp, the inmates all turned out to see us. “Bloemfontein” was passed during the night

Tuesday 26th At Virginia we crossed “ Grand River” 7.30am. The country very bare of vegetation. Reached “Kroonstad” at 11am. Everything was unshipped here, the horses first being fed and watered. Had to wait for the other train, which arrived at 6.30pm before anything else could be done. The horses were then all picqueted, and the men except those on duty were allowed to sleep in the goods shed. It was very cold as we had neither overcoats or blankets.

Wednesday 27th. Very cold and frosty. All our gear was now packed on mule wagons, horses saddled; we then marched through the town, such as it is, to our camping ground, about 2 miles from the station . The “Tommies” were much amused at the way a number of our horses carried on. They had not forgotten the way to back, although they had been standing for 6 whole weeks, without a chance to lie down. On reaching our camp the horse lines were immediately put down. There being no tents “Kipsies” were made out of our blankets. Most of us took advantage of a swim in the “Valsch River” which flows at the foot of the rise on which we camped.

Thursday 28th. Spent the best part of the day, swimming and fishing. W e had one great disadvantage, we had to carry the drinking water, from the well on the other side of the river to our camp, about 1 and half miles. Fresh meat issued out, first time for 7 weeks. Several accidents. One had his arm broken, another accidentally shot in the foot.

Friday 29th Very busy fetching out supplies, fodder etc from the depot

Saturday 30th Mounted parade at 8am and marched to Kroonstad, where we were inspected by Maj Gen EL Elliot CB DSO. Very heavy rain, flooding several kipsies.

Sunday 31st Mounted Parade at 10am. The “Patrol” which went out in the morning, returned during the afternoon, carrying a number of pigs, which had been “commandeered”.

Apr-01

Monday April 1st , Mounted drill now held daily. Fresh meat being rather scarce, night excursions take place, to several Kaffir Kraals in the vicinity, and generally result in a good haul of fowls etc.

Tuesday 2nd Very wet day

Wednesday 3rd River in flood. Col Bethuen’s column came in during the afternoon and camped near us. Sergt Hamilton while trying to cross the river on horseback, was washed down stream and drowned. Estimated that the current was running at 20 miles per hour, a search party was sent down, but nothing found beyond his hat. He was quite a young fellow and liked by all. Several sheep were commandeered while watering at the river. Fared badly for bread, ours got “lifted” from the kipsie.

Thursday 4th Inspected by Col Bethuen. The patrol that went out in the afternoon exchanged shots with several Boers, who soon galloped away. Country here beautifully green, with numerous wild flowers.

April 5th Good Friday Read out in daily orders, to commandeer everything, destroy all crops, household goods etc,. occupants to be sent to nearest station, male portion on commands to be taken prisoner of war, houses to be burnt down if any treachery shown, horses. Cattle etc to be brought in. O4rders that 200 men to be ready to march at 6pm, after everything was packed the order was cancelled. This is a taste of what we are to get.

Saturday 6th In the afternoon our troop was out with a transport for wood. While we were pulling down the doors etc from the farm, several men were sent out to round up some sheep , between the farm and the railway line, and were mistaken for Boers, by the men in a blockhouse who immediately opened fire on our men, who retired for the farm. Lieut Muir, our officer, immediately sent out another man with a white flag to the blockhouse, and explained matters, about 50 rounds were fired, but luckily no one was hit, they were only about 400 yards from the railway line. At 8pm orders to pack up, and be ready for marching, but it was again cancelled.

Easter Sunday 7th At 1pm we received orders to pack up, this time in real earnest, and punctually at 2.30 we were in the saddle, and marched through the town, until after dark, camped at 8pm near a small spruit, all very tired and hungry.

Monday 8th Marched at sunrise to “ Honnings Spruit” which we reached at 10am. We were joined here by Col H deB De Lisle ( whom we were now under) 400 men of the “Sixth Mounted Infantry” 2 guns of the 62nd Battery RFA, and one pom-pom A1 section, besides a number of transports etc etc.

Tuesday 9th Left at 9am for “Rhenoster Kop” 10 miles west of the line, the scene of several fights during the early stages of the war. We saw a number of the enemy who were shelled by the guns. There were no casualties on our side. At a farm close by we made short work of a number of geese, fowls etc, which were much appreciated when we arrived back at camp, about dark. Remained in camp until

Thursday 11th when we moved out at 3am, taking with us 2 guns. A number of the horses not being used to the holes in the ground, came down, rider and all. At sunrise we halted at an unoccupied farm, and from here a number of Boers were shelled by the pom-pom. Four of our men who had been sent out on “Observation Post” were surprised by a party of Boers, one was wounded, the others captured, but allowed to go, after handing over rifle etc arrived back at Honnings Spruit at 2pm

Friday 12th Struck camp and left at 7am for “Langs Hill”, reached at 10am and camped here for the night. We reached “Rhenoster River”, and crossed on

Sunday 14th camping for the remainder of the day at “De Wets Farm” which is about 1 and half miles from the Rhenoster Railway station.

Monday 15th Slight skirmish with a party of the enemy, one of our horses was shot. Camped at Oliviers Farm. Spent one of the worst nights in South Africa, on outpost duty at a spruit, and was almost eaten alive by mosquitoes

Tuesday 16th Halted until 3pm, when we struck camp and marched until after dark

Wednesday 17th Arrived back at Oliviers Farm. From here we sent 20 wagons, full of refugees, and a number of cattle and sheep were also driven to the station. Camp until

Friday 19th when we marched at 7am and camped shortly after dinner time

Saturday 20th Reached ‘Bredefort Road”

Sunday 21st Rhenoster” where we remained until

Wednesday 24th When we marched at the usual hour, and camped at “Roudevaal”. We received our mail here

Thursday 25th” Tulbah”

Friday 26th Our squadron D, was right flank and about 9am when near a large farm our scouts were fired on from the farm, while our troop was busily engaged, the other troops (3) were engaging about 80 Boers on a kopje to our right, after about half an hour continuous firing, 16 Boers rushed away from the farm, and joined the rest of them now on a ridge. We were kept busy for about another 2 hours. Had 2 men wounded, including one from our troop, and nine horses were also shot. Another man in our troop had a lucky escape, a bullet cut away the rim of his hat. We received no assistance from the column, as they had changed direction, and were about 7 miles off. Joined them at 4.30pm. We had a splendid dinner, roast fowl, duck, turkey, mutton, pork, potatoes, tomatoes, spring onions, quinces and eggs, which we made short work of.

Saturday 27th Marched at 7am the advance guard, being continually fired on; while the guns were kept busy; we being “main Body” had several gallops with them. Camp at 2pm. Wet night.

Sunday 28th Boers troublesome on the left flank kept firing at us, but kept at a distance. Heard at Kaffir kraal, that a Boer convoy of 34 wagons had passed there early in the morning. On outpost until 6am on

Monday 29th When 100 men with pom-pom left camp to escort a convoy with provisi0ns back from Col Bethuen’s column, then about 12 miles off. Coming back we secured a large number of fowls etc from different farms, and were fortunate enough to find some sugar, the first and only time while in South Africa. Also found some honey and butter.

Tuesday 30th Very wet. Halted early for the day at a very nice farm

May-01

Wednesday May1st Camp struck at 7am and marched until 1130, when we had a midday halt until 1pm. Our squadron was then sent out some miles on the right flank, we heard that there was a convoy in the vicinity. We found an abandoned wagon, fully loaded, which was burnt where it stood, also destroyed several farms and a quantity of “mealies’ . We reached the “Wilge River” at dark, crossed over the big bridge, into the town of “Frankfort” to find the column camped on a rise, at the back of the town,

. A number of Boers were in the town when the column arrived, but soon cleared out after a few shells were fired at them.

Thursday May 2nd At 4am, 400 men with 3 guns left camp. It was bitterly cold and foggy. After we got through the rough hills, we had a good gallop for several miles, when crossing a spruit on what I thought was hard ground, my horse sank down in mud so deep that the flaps of the saddle were covered, but with the assistance of several other s and a shovel we dug him out. At about 11 o’clock, we came up with a number of Boers on some rough kopjes, we kept on , but were continually shelling the. A couple of hours later on, wagons were sighted, and 17 were captured, the men who were with them clearing in all directions. One armed prisoner was captured in a mealie field, who fired at a Captain of the 6th MI at 40 yards missing him. We covered40 miles during the day, and the remainder of the Boer convoy was left to Gen Broadwood to chase, who was about 8 miles off on our right.

Friday 3rd Our squadron advance guard, No 3 troop, being “ right advance’ soon after leaving camp, the right flank was engaged, from some kraals on a small kopje, these were charged by 2 companies of the 6th MI under shell fire, the enemy did not stay long. All the morning we were busily engaged on all sides, and it was estimated that there were 500 Boers around us, several times our troop had to charge kopjes on which there were Boers, being as close as 200 yards, we lost 2 horses, nom one was hit, yet the bullets kept cutting up the ground all rounds the horses, this continued until midday, when we arrived at “Tafel Kop”. It was said that the guns, including the pom-pom, fired 800 shells. The campo was pitched at the foot of the “Kop”. We were outpost at a farm that night, and one of the Officers when visiting was fired on and had a narrow escape.

Saturday 4th On “Observation Post’ until 7.30pm when we were relieved. Being short of rations the column halted for the day

Sunday 5th Moved at 3.30am, just after leaving camp, a very heavy fog came on and after waiting for it to clear off for several hours, it was decided to camp at a farm close by for the remainder of the day. Our convoy which we left at Frankfort arrived during the afternoon. Two of the guns which were posted on a kopje opposite Tafel Kop were kept busy, by a party of Boers who kept hanging about some kraals some distance from the camp. Double issue of rations at night.

Monday 6th Left with a party of men, and a gun to go foraging, and brought several loads of hay etc also a quantity of fowls, pigs etc QMS Schumann while out looking for a mule that has been lost, was overtaken by some Boers outside the outpost, fired on and killed. He was unarmed. Was buried that afternoon, near the spruit, which runs at the foot of the camp. At about 10pm, the outposts were fired on, we were all turned out, and lay in the cold for an hour or more, no more alarm, so we returned to our beds

Tuesday 7th Column halted for the day. At 2.30am a large patrol went out, saw a number of enemy after sunrise Shots were exchanged, but no damage done as far as we could see.Returned at 11am and remained in camp until 6am on

Thursday 9th when our squadron was to escort the refugees, captured wagons etc. After a bout a six or eight mile ride we handed them over to the escort of a provision convoy which was for our column. At 7.30 pm our troop with some more men making the number up to 30, under Lieut Muir, left the camp in dead silence to try and capture a Boer outpost that had been seen all day, on a kopje about 4 miles from the camp. Myself and 3 others acted as scouts and we had great difficulty in finding the farm near which the Boers had been seen, we had numerous fences and spruits to cross. It was very dark and cold. We were very cautious on nearing the farm, but found no one there, although a number of turkeys and geese, were very alarmed at us and I think gave warning to the outpost at our approach. We left our horses here in charge of a few men. Crept through a mealie field, sometimes on our knees to the kopje, about a mile from the farm, on reaching the top we found that the piquet had gone, although they left a pair of field glasses and some turnips freshly peeled. Returned to the farm, which we reached at 11.30pm and those not on watch had ¾ of an hours sleep, on the filthy floors of the farm. We were again on the move at 1am and reached the column which was moving at 2.30am on

Friday 10th We marched all night, very sleepy, and halted at sunrise for half an hour, camping at dinner time. The rear guard and right flank were engaged several times during the morning, and had several wounded, also a few captured, but not until all their ammunition had been fired..

Saturday 11th Very cold and frosty. Rear guard again in trouble. Several casualties.

Sunday 12th Our squadron on the right flank. During the morning everything was very quiet , and we saw what we thought was a troop of our own men, crossing our front some distance ahead, we gradually approached the ridge, where these men went to, and were within about 300 yards when we were surprised at getting a crashing volley at us, we soon got to cover but not before we had one man hit and 2 horses shot in our troop. We camped shortly after at “Tweefontain”

Monday 13th During the day the “Sixth Contingent” joined us from “ Standerton” bringing with them a provision convoy. We remained camped until 7am

Wednesday 15th. Passing the deserted town of “Vrede” on our right. The right flank was continually being fired at, our troop being engaged several times. At a farm where we camped, we found a large quantity of goods buried in a spruit

Thursday 16th Camped at “Tweyfel Hoek”. On

Friday 17th at “Storm Hoek”

Saturday 18th Reached “Waterval” Very cold

Sunday 19th Column remained camped all day. Left in the morning with 200 men to escort refugees and a large quantity of stock to “Newcastle” (Natal). About 8 miles from Waterval we crossed the border into Natal, then over the Drakensberg Mountains by way of “Bothas Pass’ We could see “ Amajuba Hill” on our left. Handed our convoy over several miles from the town, and returned to the pass where we halted for dinner. Joined the column at dark.

Monday 20th Charged several high kopjes on foot during the morning, and on reaching the top found that the “birds” had flown just as well as we were thoroughly exhausted when we reached the top. Reached “Mowbray” at dark, and immediately sent to the top of the kopje, on outpost, two of us came down for rations later in the evening, but had difficulty getting back as we had lost the one and only track.

Tuesday 21st Reach “Wet Kopjes” which were said to be in possession of a large force of Boers. We charged these, under cover of our guns, which were shelling over our heads. The scenery among these kopjes is very beautiful “Cornelia River “ was reached before dark, and was frozen over, a number of us walked across in parts, on the ice. Passed a very cold night, but was lucky enough to have plenty of wood, which we secures from the farm close by.

Heavy firing on our right flank, we had several wounded; whilst several Boers were unsaddled. Pass through very rough, hilly country cross the “Mile River” at “Kranz Drift” where we remained for the night

Thursday 23rd Long march to “Harrismith”, which we reached late in the afternoon. Our rear guard had several wounded and 4 captured. Camped several miles from the town, near the main blockhouse on the “Bethlehem Road”.

Friday 24th Halt for the day and those not on duty were allowed leave to go into the township, which is very prettily situated at the foot of “Platberg”, a long flat mountain, which is at the back of the town. Harriesmith has a population of 450 whites and 1100 blacks, and is strongly garrisoned. We all spent a very enjoyable day in town

Saturday 25th. After getting our supplies, we left at 8am and camped again about 8 miles from the town. A number of Boers were seen on our left flank and the Yeomenry who were on the flank got into a corner. We were immediately sent out with a gun, which soon despatched the enemy. The Yeomanry had 5 casualties. Soon after camping, the enemy set fire to long grass, and the strong wind which prevailed at the time soon swept down on the camp. Everyone was ordered out with blankets, but it broke through in one part , and swept through the right front of the camp, burning a number of the tents, belonging to the Officers. From this out we burnt a stretch of grass around the camp.

Sunday 26th at 2am 100 S Australian left camp for bridges crossing the “ Mollen (Mill) River” The fifth went to one bridge, while F squadron (The Sixth Contingent) went to another. We reached ours at daybreak hands and feet numbed with the cold. This was the coldest night I felt while in the country. Our horses were placed under the bridge, while we prepared ourselves to ambush any Boers who might come along. Just at daylight, a horseman was seen approaching from our rear, one man challenged him, but got no answer so fired and dropped him off his horse, he was horrified to find that he was one of own men, Trooper Bennier, who was acting as scout to A squadron, who had missed the road to the bridge that they were to go to and were returning to join us. We afterwards heard that 40 Boers crossed the bridge where they should have been.

Monday 27th we arrived at “Kaffirstad’. Trooper B was buried in the afternoon near the “River Cornelia”

Tuesday 28th Boers engaged the advance guard from some rough ridges, the South Australian were ordered out and charged the ridge, under cover of the pom-pom. A man slightly wounded. Continual sniping at the flanks. Just as the column was camping, our squadron in advance, was crossing a heavy mealie patch when we were suddenly fired on from a farm close by, got out of the heavy ground as quickly as we could and got cover. It was wonderful that not a horse or man was hit, and yet from about 300 yards from the farm. Very large outpost that night, and several times a few shots were fired.

Wednesday 29th Our squadron being outpost for the night, were rear guard, and No 23 troop was the last to leave. We had not gone many yards when we were again fired at from the rear. We immediately galloped to a kopje on our left front dismounted, and open fire on the coming Boers. The remainder of the squadron came back to our assistance. Another party of about 100 Boers galloped up under cover of the smoke from a grass fire, and joined their friends who were now in a donga. A gun was sent to our assistance, but later in the morning was taken in towards the column, as it was almost captured at one time. The country was rough, and the gunners waited too long before limbering up. F Squadron bringing us some more ammunition, came back as reinforcements, also 1 company of the 6th MI. During the whole of the morning we were busy with the enemy and galloped first from one ridge then onto the next. We halted half an hour for dinner. During the afternoon the grass was fired on the left flank, the wind being strong, carried it flames along at a great rate and we, the rear guard, were nearly cut off, as it was we had to gallop for a mile or more, through blinding smoke, heat and dust. After this we went along in quietness. And after a long, weary, hard days marching, we reached the town of “ Vrede” at 5pm. All the troops being allowed to camp in the houses for the night.

Thursday 30th Halt for the day. Also had a good look through the town (deserted0. In many houses it looked as if the people had just left, all the furniture being there, pianos and organs. Four of us occupied the parsons house (Rev AJ Griffin) opposite the fine Reform Church, which had a splendid gallery and a good organ, which was made use of while we camped there. We had spring mattresses, settees etc and also had a nice stove to cook on. Spent a good part of the day cooking. Made a plum duff (but no plums)and boiled it in a blue handkerchief that we found, and were disappointed at taking it out of the saucepan, to find that the dye had taken to the pudding, never-the- less it went high with some jam at tea time.Very heavy thunderstorm, during the evening. After tea we had a “musical evening” in the “front room”. Sergeant Leach taking the chair. We had a good issue of rum, and what with a bottle of gin, that we had given to us, we had a very enjoyable time. At 9.30 an on

Friday 31st we had short notice of half an hour to have everything packed and be on the move, needless to say we did it, and “everything everywhere”. Soon after starting, the sniping again started , at times with great vigour.

Jun-01

Saturday June 1st Right flank heavily engaged, the three guns were in action, but the enemy was not to be shifted by shells. The South Australians were ordered out to charge the ridge. With Capt Watt at our lead, we rushed madly across about a mile of open, to the ridge, up which we rushed, only to find our “friends” about 150 in number, just mounting the top of the next ridge beyond. Terribly cold day.

Sunday 2nd Freezing all day. Did not shift camp until late in the morning, and then only about a mile. Remained there, expecting a convoy, until 8am

Tuesday 4th. A party of Boers kept following the rear guard all the morning but did no damage. Camped at “Woodade”(?). The convoy arrived during the afternoon with a reinforcement of 500 IY’s and 2 guns of “O” Battery RHA (12 pounders)

Wednesday 5th Pom-Pom did splendid work in the advance guard, where the enemy were very troublesome. Halted at midday for an hour, when news was brought in of a Boer convoy ahead. D squadron was told off from the main body to go ahead, and after a 6 mile gallop we reached the “Wilge River” and crossed at “Stale Drift, we here sighted some wagons, and a mile further on caught and turned them back, there were 9 wagons and several carts, loaded with flour and wheat mostly. We halted at some kraals, while the wagons were being sent back. There were numerous Boers , continually firing, mostly from the other side of the river. The party at the kraal where I was had no officer of our own, but an English Officer who was there, ordered us not to return fire. Shortly after the order came for us to “retire” and from the kraal to the ridge where we had to go, we got it hot. Needless to say we did not take long to reach the ridge, where we joined the rest of our men and were safe. Recrossed the drift at dark; several of the wagons had to be burnt, on account of them breaking down. Rejoined the column at 9 o’clock. Horses and men both very tired.

Thursday 6th At 4am F and E half squadrons with a few MI’s making in all about 120 men, left camp to go in chase of the remainder of the convoy, the tail end of which we captured last evening. Our squadron was sent out at 6am to bring in several families, some few miles back. It was a terribly cold morning and we had a bad time in getting the wagons over a drift. We rejoined the column which had halted at a drift, crossing the river at about 10o’clock. We then acted as rear guard, and were very busy all morning. We missed one splendid chance but not our fault. We had halted on a ridge to allow the column to get on ahead when a party of about 80 horsemen rode along the foot of the ridge at about 300 yards range, they all wore greatcoats, one officer said he was sure they were Boers, but another said they were IY’s” and would not let us fire, they rounded a kopje and we heard from them showing they, showing they were not “Y’s”. During the afternoon we got news back at the rear guard, that the party who left camp that morning had been cut up. Did not hear particulars until we reached camp after dark, where everything was all excitement. The convoy had been captured by our men, with scarcely any firing, it was “laagered up”, so we were told, and a party of about 400 men were seen approaching, taken to be men from the column, as a relief, the mistake was not found out until too late . A fierce fight resulted at close quarters resulting in loss of life to both sides. The convoy again fell into the hands of the Boers, and was recaptured by a reinforcement coming up from the column, who chased the enemy some distance, the Pom-pom again doing excellent work. We camped about a mile from the scene of the disaster. “Graspan”

Friday June 7th Was over at the scene, with the remainder of the squadron, and the sight was one I shall never forget. Our own dead were laying in one long line, while those of the enemy in another. They were all placed in wagons. Number of wagons many of them broken, while others had dead and dying bullocks in the yokes, dead horses lying everywhere, the contents of the wagons, clothes, beds etc, scattered all about. The rifles, ammunition etc was burnt, along with the clothes, and the wagons. Reached deserted town of “Reitz” about dinner time. The dead were buried in the cemetery during the afternoon. A number of wounded Boers were found in the houses of the town, being too bad to be taken by their own people.

Saturday 8th Moved early in the morning. Our column now almost 6 miles long. The rear guard had a long, weary day.

Sunday 7th Long march to “Lindley”, another deserted town, which was reached in the afternoon. Our prisoners were handed over to Col Lowe’s column which was camped to the north of the town.

Monday 10th Camp was shifted about 2 miles out of town.

Tuesday 11th At 3am 400 men with 2 guns, the same number from Col Lowe’s column moved out of camp and marched without halting until midday, when we halted for two hours. A number of Boers were seen, and 5 were captured, with 7 wagons, 3 of them being loaded with flour. We found a number of wounded Boers from Graspan at the different farms. Passed through Lindley after dark, and joined the column camped at “ Stentefontein” at 9.30pm all thoroughly knocked up, having covered a little over 60 miles.

Wednesday 12th camped at “Tweefontein”

Thursday 13th Heavy rifle and shell fire, several of the enemy killed, while a couple of their wounded were picked up and brought to camp. A large number of cattle were captured, our troop alone bringing in over 2500 pounds worth. Camped at “Bleisbokfontein” at midday. Was killing sheep all afternoon, several thousand were killed.

Friday 14th Enemy troublesome. The IY’s who were on the left flank, were driven in and had to be reinforced. Official report of losses to the Boers received at Granspan on 6th June 16 killed 6 wounded (left on field) 44 prisoners, 71 wagons, 43 other vehicles 77 rifles, 7000rounds SA ammunition, 4250 cattle 3500 sheep, 92 women, 342 children and 29 natives.

Saturday 15th We were rear guard, and before we had left our position, the enemy started sniping at us. After leaving we doubled back, meeting the Boers, who were coming towards us, all the rear guard being now engaged for about half an hour, a big gun also assisting us. They followed us all morning. Lat in the day we camped at ”Kroonspruitt”, 5 miles from “Kroonstad”, where we remained until

Monday 17th when “Lord Kitchener” Commander in Chief of the British Forces in South Africa, reviewed the whole of our division, about 10,000 mounted men, and 30 guns, on the flat a few miles from Kroonstad. The “March past” was a brilliant spectacle, and Lord Kitchener expressed great satisfaction at the soldierly appearance of the men and horse. Also for the splendid work we had done. Our losses received at Graspan on June 6th were 27 killed (including 8 Australians and 20 wounded. After having thoroughly refitted etc we left Kroonspruit at 9am on

Saturday 22nd with Col Lowe’s and Broadwoods column working on our right, and Bethuens on our left. We camped late in the afternoon, having seen a number of enemy who did not trouble us. Nothing of importance happened until

Monday 24th June When after marching about 12 miles, camp was pitched, for the night we thought. But just when “turning in” , the order came for everything to be packed and be ready to move at 8.00pm. This was done amidst the usual and seasonable cursing, which always happens on a night march. Punctually at 8 o’clock the column moved, with the usual orders, no smoking, no talking, no lights to be lit, no noise of any kind to be made. We marched until 2am when we halted for an hour, the convoy was now left in charge of a number of men, the remainder moving on with the guns until daybreak when we halted on the river bank close to the deserted town of “ Tenckal” supposed to be in the possession of De Wet, Steyn and their commando. It was immediately surrounded, and the South Australians charged at daylight, about 5 am on

Tuesday 25th, we went through the town at a mad gallop, to the other side of the town to find it was deserted, except for several families of Kaffirs, who told us that De Wet had slept near the town that night, but had been warned of our coming, by his scouts having seen lights lit by our men, and had left about 2 hours before our arrival. We camped for the remainder of the day in the houses. The church which stands in the centre of the town has a splendid pipe organ, but I am sorry to say was of not much use when the column left the town. There is also a fine clock in the church tower. “Broadwoods” Column, arrived during the evening and camped on the outskirts of the town

Wednesday 26th Halted for the day. A concert was held in the church yard during the evening. A huge bonfire was lit in the centre, made of from fixtures, counters, chairs etc from the shops. We had a “crowded house’ and the most successful concert we had in South Africa, terminated by all hands singing the “National Anthem”

Thursday 27th Marched at 8am camping again early in the afternoon, finishing the remainder of the day killing sheep. Report of captures during the last trek. Boers killed 45 prisoners 94. Wagons captured 211, Carts etc 89. Rifles 87 Ammunition, 8000 rounds. 15000Horses, 16000 cattle, and 176000 sheep.

Friday 28th Pass through very rough, hilly country

Saturday 29th Camped at the lagoon, one mile west of “Bethlehem”. From here to “Magors Drift” ( on the Wilge River) about 16 miles from Harriesmith which we reached at midday on

Jul-01

Tuesday July 2nd We had a very quiet time, not having seen anything of the enemy. By night time 5 other columns came in, making it a very busy scene. We finished getting supplies, leaving on

Thursday 4th at 8am. Numbers of Boers were seen on the flanks, and kept continually sniping, the first we have heard from them for about 12 days.

Friday 5th Enemy very active. Part of the main body, went out during the day, returning at dark having captured several wagons with refugees in them. At 8pm, just after going to bed, our troop, with F and E squadrons, were turned out; moving out of camp with a machine gun at 9pm. It was a very cold, frosty night, and we marched to “Reitz”, which was reached at about 3am on

Saturday 6th. All dismounted at the edge of the town, which was searched, nothing being found except a dog. The horses were then brought up and all put inside the houses. We then waited for anyone who might come along, but sighted nothing until 8.30am when the column arrived, for which we were glad, as it was terribly cold inside the houses, and no fires were allowed to be lit until the column came. Left Ritz at 3pm camping at dark. We had continual sniping until

Tuesday 9th During the morning the enemy were very busy at the rear guard. They were constantly shelled, but took no notice of the shells, which at times seemed to cover them with dust. At 8pm C D and E squadrons (about 150 men) with a colt gun left the camp, marching until 2.30am when we took up several positions overlooking the drift. Another awfully cold and miserable night. We sighted nothing as usual, and left there at 8.30am, joining the column at 10am

Thursday 11th Very misty day, could see very little distance ahead; advance guard were surprised, but the enemy were soon shifted by the pompom

Friday 12th A large patrol went out from the column, and made a big sweep, capturing several prisoners, along with a few wagons and carts. Joined the column which was camped at “Elandskomp” From Reitz to the “Komp” was nothing but a sea of grass, no trees of any kind to be seen excepting at the farms

Saturday 13th Camped early 1mile from the town of “Heilbrom”.

Sunday 14th The camp was shifted, about half a mile, along the branch railway line from “ Heilbon Road” , close to the railway bridge for better water. Church parade at 10.30am conducted by the Chaplin from Gen Elliot’s Staff; Captain Young

Monday 15th Column marched at 8am reinforced by a section of 15pr guns from G Battery RHA

Tuesday 16th Crossed the main railway line at “Kopies” about midday, and camp at “Essenbach”, a few miles from the line, and remained camped here until 7am on

Thursday 18th No one being sorry to leave, as we had a great scarcity of wood, while being in camp.

Friday 19th Pass through a range of rough rocky hills; a large party with 6 guns, charged through some hills which were covered with low undergrowth, there were numerous falls, owing to the exceptionally large number of holes in the ground. On reaching the top, a large number of Boers were seen ahead, and after shelling, the troops again advanced but could not get within range of them. Camped at a very pretty spot, between the “Wet Kopies”

Saturday 20th At 2am, two companies of the 6th MI, C and F squadrons SA with 3 guns left camp, for a drift on the “Vaal River”, and joined us again that night, having captured several prisoners

Sunday 21st At 3am D squadron and a company of the 6th MI left camp, for some drifts on the “Rhenoster River”. The MI left us at daylight (about 6am) at a large farm close to the river, whilst we proceeded further up the stream, some Boers were surprised here, and 5 captured along with some carts, horses, cattle, women and children. We remained here until about 11am, when more troops with some guns joined us. After crossing the drift we continued on at a gallop, after a few wagons that had been sighted. These were captured along with some carts containing women and children. During the afternoon, Reg Sergt Major McGillavray was killed, supposed to have been shot by a woman in a Cape Cart, which he was leading. The woman was afterwards court martialled, and acquitted, there being insufficient evidence to prove her guilty. The following appeared in orders that night:

“ The OC regrets to announce the death of Sergt Major McGillavray, whilst riding down the enemy this morning. He was a brave fighting man, with a sound sense of duty, and a staunch fighter. Whilst he leaves us to deplore his loss, he also leaves behind him a soldierly like record, which any man would feel justly proud of. The funeral will take place tomorrow at 8.30am”

Monday 22nd After the funeral, the column marched at 10am, reaching the “Vaal River” at 4.30pm, and crossing at “Coal Drift” into the Transvaal. Col Western’s column was camped here.

Tuesday 23rd Pass througha mining district, gold and coal, camping at 3pm at “Schoens Spruit”, 3 miles from “Klerksdorp” and remained in camp until 8am on

Saturday 27th marching until midday

Sunday 28th Several prisoners were galloped down by C squadron, near the banks of the “Vaal”

Monday 29th At 10pm C, D and F squadrons were ordered out, and marched until 11pm following the river down until 3am on

Tuesday 30th C squadron was left at a drift in ambush, the remainder moving on, until daylight, when fires were seen through the brushwood on the banks of the “Valsh River’, a crossing was found with much difficulty, and we charged across, and at a gallop rushed into a lot of screaming women, and a number of Boers who were scattering in all directions, who were chased through the trees and hills at the back of the farm. Their wagons etc were laagered in a very pretty spot, and the women were just preparing breakfast, when we rushed in upon the scene. Two Boers were killed, and 14 captured, along with 10 wagons and several carts. Several wagons had teams of donkeys, then had a difficult job getting our captured wagons, up the steep banks. Rejoined the column at “Walkraal”, on the banks of the Vaal. We were all very tired and hungry, not having had any provisions with us. C squadron also captures 6 Boers.

Wednesday 31st at 11am we again crossed the Vaal, the last of the convoy not being over until 4pm, camping at “Withrams” after dark

Aug-01

Thursday August 1st Continued following the river, camping at midday at “Commando Drift”. At 10pm D and F squadrons, comprising 120 men in all, left camp on a night march, which turned out to be one, if not the most exciting that we had taken part in during the last few months. We marched until 6am

Friday 2nd when we reached the banks of the “Vet River”, not very far from its junction with the Vaal. It was breaking dawn and several fires were seen near the farm. Bayonets were fixed as we rode along, and when within about 300 yards, we were ordered to charge, and with a yell we galloped headlong down upon the enemy at the farm, who were now out of bed, some rushing to their horses, some firing madly, cries of “Hands Up” from both sides, and a shot rapidly followed it the enemy did not reply. The enemy were now scattered everywhere, and many escaped through the gaps in the fences, which our men new nothing about. After searching the tick scrub, which fringes the river, we gathered at the farm which is called “Grootolie”. Five of the enemy were found to have been killed, and 11 captured, while we had 2 wounded, and the Major’s Indian servant killed. It was now daylight and the enemy were seen, about 300 of them, but out of range, we were now all posted at the strongest positions, breastworks etc built, as it looked as if the enemy intended to rush us. An Officer and 3 men were now despatched to hurry up the guns with 100 men, who were to leave camp at 2am to reinforce us, and they were chased by 15 Boers, for 6 miles when they joined the relief, which now started to our relief at a full gallop. All of us were indeed thankful, when we saw the dust rising, telling us they were near. They reached us at 9am and were joined by the column at 3pm. Major Shea ( our Commanding Officer) received the “DSO”, for conspicuous gallantry, and Corporal Kermode the DCM for bravery, both on the same occasion.

Saturday 3rd Cross the drift to a better position, about a mile from the farm.

Sunday4th Halt for the day. Church service held at 1030am, a piano being used that was found buried at the farm, While the column was proceeding to join us on Friday, the rear guard was attacked, and we had one killed, and one wounded, During the day Major Shea, OC of the South Australians received the following letter

“ Please convey to the gallant regiment under your command, mu high appreciation of the three successful night enterprises, they have lately carried out, and especially of the very dashing night attack on the Grootolie Farm, a performance worthy of the very best tradition of Australian Troops in this war.” H deB DeLisle Colonel

Monday 5th moved at 4am, marching until 10am when we halted until 1o’clock, when we received news there was a Boer convoy ahead. D and E squadrons with a pom-pom set off, and after a 5 mile gallop, we sighted wagons, the country being very flat, the enemy saw us coming who cleared in all directions. When heading the wagons we heard some one cry “Hurrah boys, saved at last, thank God”, found out later that it was a Sergeant of “Driscolls Scouts’ who had been kept a prisoner by the enemy , for a month. After turning these wagons we continued along for another 5 or 6 miles, capturing 6 more wagons, and a mob of 5000 cattle making 51 wagons in all. Reached camp after dark, thoroughly “knocked out” , and now our squadron then had the pleasure of going straight away on outpost duty.

Tuesday 6th Shifted camp a few miles during the morning. A patrol while out, came across 9 wounded Boers at a farm from Grootolei. “Inkpan”

Wednesday 7th At 7am D and F squadrons left the camp, for Col Owen’s column which was reached at 11amfor the mail rejoined the column at “Boesmansfontein”

Thursday 8th At 2am 150 S Australians 200 6th MI’s with 3 guns left camp and marched until daybreak, when we halted at a farm, for half an hour to “light up”. After moving on several miles we caught up to a large number of horses and cattle, being looked after by some Kaffirs, we knew now that a convoy was somewhere handy, a short distance on we came upon 10 wagons, the people just getting out of bed, halting here for a minute and leaving a few men to bring them on, we continued on at a gallop. About another 4 miles on we came in sight of a large number of wagons; and Boers were to be seen in all directions, fleeing from their wagons. The enemy were shelled and chased for several mile, until the Pom-pom from Broadwood’s column was heard, as the enemy was drawn right into him, who was some miles to our left.

The wagons were now collected, which took us about 3 hours, as they were much scattered. On being counted it was found that we had 110 wagons and carts, 964 women and children. When all was ready we journeyed on with our capture, reached the column camped at “ Leewofontein” at 2pm. We had just off saddled, when a heliograph message was flashed, from Col Fanshawe, who was out some miles to our right wanting assistance, we at once saddled up, and started off with the pom-pom; we had not gone far , when a galloper came up saying that we were no longer needed, as the Colonel had shifted the enemy, who were very troublesome. He came in with his men some time after bringing another 17 wagons.

Friday 9th Crossed the “Modder River” at Truters Drift, which was reached during the afternoon. The Drift is guarded by 70 men, “Canadians and Oxfords”.

Saturday 10th Shift camp a short distance up the river. We buried another of our men, Tpr Whittle, who died of fever in the morning.

Sunday 11th Church Parade at 11am Camp was struck at 3pm, camping again shortly after dark.

Tuesday 13th During the morning our squadron was told off to escort the prisoners, wagons etc captured from the enemy at Bloemfontein, we left the column which proceded on its way to the “Glen”, at about midday, and after a long, dusty ride reached Bloemfontein at 4pm. Marched with the wagons through the town, to the “Concentration Camp” which was several miles out of the town. All the women and children were left here, as were the wagons. We stayed here for an hour or more, then with the prisoners in several wagons, journeyed to some Military Offices opposite the “Raddzall”, where all the captured rifles were left. Quite a crowd collected around us for “news” and they told us it was quite a “treat” to see anyone in the town, straight from the “veldt”. Our clothes were all grease, some torn, while our faces and hands were very dirty , from the dusty road which we had all the way after leaving the column. We escorted the prisoners to the Goal, where they were handed over to the authorities there. It was after dark when we left the supplies, where we had to get rations for ourselves and fodder for the horses. Had great difficulty in finding our way to the Remount Depot, near which we camped for the night, at the outskirts of the town. The town being under “ Martial Law’ there was no one about after 9pm, except the Town Guard, who was “halting “ us every few minutes.

Wednesday 14th We were allowed leave, until 1pm , when all of us took advantage of going into the town. Leaving the remount depot at 2pm, we reached the “ Glen” at dark where the column was camped

Friday 16th Again took advantage of the leave which was granted to us, and journeyed into town by rail, on top of cattle trucks. At night several of us went to the theatre, and saw “Charlies Aunt”. We spent a very enjoyable day, but had a bad night, as we slept on the railway platform; not having any blankets etc we were terribly cold. It was a very frosty night. We caught the “Pretoria Mail” train which left at 4am, arrived camp shortly after 6o’clock.

Sunday 18th Left the Glen at 9am, camping at “Thekgakegan” for the night

Monday 19th “Vlakfontein” reached at midday

Tuesday 20th Short march to “Bushman’s Kop”. Soon after camping, the enemy started sniping at several of the outposts, which were driven in. The pom-pom which shelled from the camp soon quietened the snipers

Wednesday 21st Halted for several hours midday, at Preniloo’s Farm, camping at dark at ”Bridells Koop”

Thursday 22nd At midday we reached “Merrumietzie”, a very beautiful spot, which is at the entrance to a pass, through a range of mountains. At the farm, ”Commandant Wessels) which is a very fine building, with a beautiful garden, Gen Elliot camped with his Staff; the kopjes were almost perpendicular to a great height at the back of the farm.

Friday 23rd Our squadron out on patrol, and soon after going about 6 miles, we discovered in the centre of the “Fairy Hills” an engine and flour mill complete, afire was in the furnace, showing that it had not long been left, all was destroyed along with a quantity of flour which was hidden among the rocks; the scenery here was beautiful, with numerous running streams. The Colonel said that the mill was a good capture, as the enemy had been drawing supplies from it for several months. We did not leave without filling the nosebags with the precious stuff.

Saturday 24th Very wet night, almost everyone swamped out, rain cleared off during the morning. In the afternoon sports were held, which were very successful. Our Regiment winning 5 out of the 8 events, including the Brigade Championship.

The “Lloyd Lindsay and the Wagon Race” were the most amusing, in the latter only niggers and mules took part

Sunday 25th Church Service at 11 am, and “Camp Fire Service” at 7pm

Monday 26th Shifted camp for better grazing several miles to the other side of the drift

Tuesday 27th Church at 8am. D squadron sent to escort convoy for Col Lowes column, camped late at “Jacobsdal”

Wednesday 28th Still very rough hilly country. Reach “Gouvernoreurs Kop” at 4pm

Thursday 29th Camped at “Hammonia”

Friday 30th “Groenfontein” reached at midday. Immediately after camping, all the guns and available men were sent out, after a convoy that was supposed to be in the vicinity. They returned shortly after dark, bringing in a few wagons with a quantity of cattle

Saturday 31st Short march to “Reitvolin”, which we reached at 9am. At 11 o’clock all available troops with 3 guns moved out of camp towards the mountains, some few miles east of the camp; the entrance – a sort of pass – was shelled, while a number of the troops charged through, but nothing was seen or heard of the enemy. We now started climbing the steep sides of the hills, it was wonderful how the guns got to the top; one of the 15 pounders had to be dug out of a spruit, where it got bogged, the pom-pom had to be unlimbered in one place and was dragged up with ropes, while an ammunition wagon was capsized in going down the side of a hill. After a few miles of rough, hilly country we came to what is well known as the “Brandswaterbasin”. A large number of cattle were found here, also several wagons containing women and children which were hidden in rocky gullies. We also found a large quantity of provisions hidden and buried in the hills. The ridges we had to climb were constantly shelled, in case the enemy should be there. We returned to camp, most of us loaded with flour, butter, eggs etc which we had found. Reached the column shortly after dark.

Sep-01

Sunday September 1st Halt for the day. Church service at 10.30 am and “Camp fire Service” held during the evening

Monday 2nd Marched at 7.30am to “Brackfontein” and the advance guard were constantly sniped at

Tuesday 3rd We reached “Cypres” at 3pm

Wednesday 4th After a long, weary march we reached “Hartbeestefontein” at 6pm, about 5 miles from “Winburg” township

Saturday 7th During the afternoon, while mounted sports were being held, a rifle was accidentally fired, killing Tpr BH May and wounding another of our men; it cast quite a gloom over the whole camp as he was well liked by all who knew him. He was buried during the afternoon. It happened during the first event on the program, which after the sad accident was stopped.

Tuesday 10th Left at 6am, camping at “Leydon”. Raining the whole of the day.

Wednesday 11th At 4.30am C< D and E Squadrons left camp, reaching “Pitonis Mill” shortly after daylight, a number of Boers were seen at sunrise; and half the party remained at the Mill, while the remainder went out on patrol, capturing several prisoners and a couple of Cape Carts. The enemy were strongly posted among the kopjes. We were reinforced at the Mill by 2 guns, and one company of the 6th MI and after about another 6 miles marching we sighted a number of wagons, around which were a quantity of Boers, under “Commandant Kooen”. These were shelled as we charged down on the wagons, but scattered in all directions as soon as we reached the wagons. The head of the convoy was turned at “Lots Pillar” and we returned to the column which as camped near “Spritz Kop”. In all 71 wagons were captured containing 400 women and children. Two Boers were killed and 15 taken prisoners, 9 rifles, 2500 head of cattle, quantity of sheep, 250 horses and 300 rounds of ammunition. A “travelling mill” was also captured, which turned out 10 tons of flour daily, 40 tons of this precious stuff was found among the different wagons. The whole of our captures were handed over to Col Lowes men the following day, whom we met. They had been after this same convoy for two days, and were thoroughly disheartened when they found that we had captured it.

Thursday 12th Soon after sunrise D and F squadrons with a pom-pom were sent out on the left flank, after some wagons which were supposed to have got away from the convoy that we captured yesterday, we left “Gouveneurs Kop” on our right; after proceeding about another 5 miles, we saw some wagons, slowly wending their way round the foot of some high kopjes. We now set out after them at a gallop, and had reached the wagions without a shot being fired. We could see that the wagons belonged to a British Column, and shortly afterwards several IY’s came up to us, looking rather scared, and told us that we had captured “ Col Bethuen’s Convoy’. These were the only troops that we saw near, and they had stayed behind making “tea”. We afterwards saw the main body, about 5 miles ahead but saw nothing of the rear guard. Our Colonel was greatly amused when he heard of our “capture”. The column camped at “Caledonia” about 4pm

Friday 13th After a long days march we camped at “Roode Krans”, reached at dark.

Saturday 14th Remained camped for the day. Very rough weather, and bitterly cold. During the afternoon a party of 8 of out troop were told of for outpost, on top of a very steep, high, rocky kopje, and after 3 and a half hours weary toiling we reached the top, where it was terribly windy, and shivered for the remainder of the night.

Sunday 15th Marched at 8am, camping at midday at “Bezunedroutskraal”

Manday 16th The column camped all day. Very wet night, easing about 8am. At 9 o’clock a patrol consisting of C and D squadrons SA, one company of 6th MI with 2 guns left the camp, for the “Witte Bergen Mountains”, where we collected a large number of cattle, had just started to return, when a terrible thunderstorm broke over us, the rain and hailstones coming down in torrents, the heaviest we have had since being in the country, our horses completely wheeled around and turned their backs to it. It was bitterly cold, with a strong wind blowing. Camp was reached at 4pm, the storm evidently as bad there, as we had had it. We found ewverything flooded and very little chance of lighting fires.

Tuesday 17th Reached “Taaboschfontein” at midday, after camping our squadron was sent out a few miles, we sighted a number of the enemy, too many for us to engage so we retired to camp, and on our way back we found several wagons and a Cape Cart hidden in a spruit, with a quantity of wheat recently put there

Wednesday 18th Column remained camped for the day. At 7am 150 SA’s, 150 6th MI and 3 guns, moved out from camp on a patrol, and after covering a deal of ground without sighting anything, we returned to camp reaching it at 4pm

Thursday 19th “Gemsbokfontein” reached at 1pm

Friday 20th Reached the deserted town of “Senekal” during the afternoon. Terribly cold, a range of mountains some distance South East of the town, being covered with snow.

Saturday 21st Camp struck at 7am and after a long day’s marching we reached “Rexford’, numbers of Boers seen on our right. Our squadron was rear guard and just before reaching camp, we met one of our ambulance wagons, which was going out on the right flank, to bring in some wounded men. It appears that 8 men from Col Lowe’s column (which was some distance on our right) were cut off from their troop, and were holding some Kraals, when a number of Boers charged them. Killing 2, wounding another, and capturing the remaining 5, who were allowed to go after being stripped.

Sunday 22nd Numbers of the enemy on our left flank and rear, but kept out of rifle range. Camped late at “Grootlaagte”, 1 mile from “Bethlehim”

Monday 23rd Moved at 8am through the township (garrisoned). While the main body were passing a very rough kopje, a number of Boers concealed among the rocks opened fire and were not shifter until 43 shells had been fired at them, besides a number fired from the pom-pom, we had several wounded, and a couple of the gun horses shot. The enemy were continually sniping during the remainder of the day. Reached “Halling Nodal at 6pm

Tuesday 24th Marched at 6 o’clock, reached Elands River bridge at 2pm where we halted for an hour, camping at “Amatully” for the night, which we reached at 5.30pm

Wednesday 25th Struck camp at 6am and camped a couple of miles from “Harrismith” at 9.30. The remainder of the Division arrived during the day. After refitting and getting supplies we moved out at 8pm on

Saturday 28th Marching to “Millers Pass”, which was reached at 1am and halting until 6am

Sunday 29th Through hilly country to “Parkhurst” where we camped for the night

Monday 30th At 8am 300 men with 2 guns moved out on patrol, returning to camp at “Rut Vlei” at 2pm. A number of snipers were seen but did no damage.

Oct-01

Tuesday 1st Marched at 8am. Number of Boers, continuously sniping, from the kopjes. camped at 2pm at “Roode Bloom”

Wednesday 2nd Marched to “Christina”, a very pretty spot, in the centre of a range of hills. Numbers of the enemy were seen during the morning but were not troublesome.

Thursday 3rd At 7am 300 MI’s, 150 SA”S and 4 guns left the camp taking 2 days rations with us , we passed through very rough country, and beautiful scenery. We went in the direction of “Natal”, to “Mullers Pass” in the direction of the “Drakensberg Mountains”, supposed to be held by the enemy (Gen Louis Botha and Commando). The scenery at the pass was most magnificent, from the top we could look straight down to the beautiful green valleys below, some hundreds of feet. From here we crossed the Border, at abour midday. We halted at 1.30pm until 4 o’clock, and returned to Christina, by the same road that we came, reaching camp at 7.30pm not having seen or heard anything of the enemy.

Friday 4th Marched at 2pm to “Stockfontein” reaching camp after dark. We went through very hilly country, and at times so steep, that two teams of bullocks had to be put in to draw one wagon up the hills.

Saturday 5th At midnight 200 of the SA’s were ordered to be ready to move at 1am, and punctually at that early hour, we left the camp, and the moon being up we had to keep on low ground, making it much further to travel. We went in the direction of “Wit Kopjes’. Leaving our horses in charge of some men, in a sheltered spot, our squadron was sent to take up some positions on some kopjes about 3 miles away, these were reached in safety, and after a stiff climb reached the top, then just breaking day. Shortly after , we saw a number of Boers, driving a mob of cattle away from us, from behind some more kopjes. A number of their horses were shot, but were not slow in mounting the spare horse that most of them were leading. We captures on e prisoner, his horse having 9 bullets in it, a quantity of cattle and horses were also captured, which the Boers left behind in their hurry. We stayed in these kopjes until about midday, and during the morning, I just happened to walk to another ridge, and on reaching the top came face to face with 2 Boers, about 40 yards off, I immediately had my rifle to the shoulder, shouting “Hands Up” thinking it the best, as they were two to one, but they wheeled around in an instant, and at the same time I fired, hitting one (so our fellows said who now came rushing up) but they went down that hill and as fast as their horses legs would move, with all of us (about 10) firing at them. We reached camp at about 4pm, which had shifted a mile or more for better water and grazing.

Sunday 6TH Marched at 8am to “Brewers Hok” Some snipers who were following from the flank kept firing until “shifted” by a few shells

Monday 7th Marched about 6 miles to “Brakfontein” Snipers still following, and kept on, firing at several of the outposts after camping. Rained hard during the afternoon and night

Tuesday 8th Halted for the day. At 7am 300 men with 2 guns left camp, to escort back a convoy of provisions from Harriesmith Very cold and stormy day. Arrived back shortly after dinner time

Wednesday 9th Heavy rain during the night, continuing well into the day. Camped at “Hermitage” at 1pm

Thursday 10th At midday we reached “Langerwacht Rust”. Midnight C D and E squadrons were turned out, and after saddling up, and lined up ready to move, the order for the night march was cancelled, the night being too dark and stormy, so we returned to our lines, and turned in until 4am

Friday 11th to march during the heavy rain which poured down all the afternoon, ceasing during tea time, but coming down with renewed vigour during the whole of the evening. Bitterly cold night

Saturday 12th At 2.45am our squadron was turned out and had 15 minutes to roll up our “bunks” and saddle up, but we were ready and at 3 o’clock we left the camp for a farm some few miles out of camp. Nothing was seen so we waited there until joined by the column at sunrise. We were again sent out on the right to lookout for Boer scouts, which we found before we knew where we were. The enemy were at us all morning, and we had two of our men wounded, but other troops came up before they had time to strip him. One Boere was captured, and a Kaffir was shot for having the rifle of our captured man. Camped shortly after dinnertime at “Allewals Kraal”

Sunday 13th “Twee-kopjes” was reached. A cricket match was played during the afternoon between the Officers and Noncoms, resulting in a win for the latter.

Monday 14th Halt for the day. Convoy arrives from Harriesmith during the afternoon, bringing with it the long looked for mail

Tuesday 15th Marched at 6am halting for an hour at midday, and camped at “Middle Kop” late in the afternoon. C and F squadrons, one Company of the 6th MI, with 2 guns, who went out on a night march last night joined us here, having captured at daylight, 30 wagons, 13 prisoners, 3000 cattle and a quantity of sheep and horses.

Wednesday 16th Arrived at “Newmarket” about midday. Numbers of the enemy who were following the rear guard, were constantly being shelled

Thursday 17th Moved a few miles to “Cornelia”. At 10pm 110 SA’s, 2 companies of the 6th MI and 2 guns left the camp marching all night until daybreak, when we halted for an hour, reached the Wilge River at sunrise, about 5.30am. A number of Boers were seen some distance on the other side of the river, numerous shots were exchanged. Halted here until 8.30 joined the column at midday, which struck camp at 5am.Soon after we reached the column a party of 100 men, with 2 guns, under Col Fanshawleft the camp, after some wagons that were reported to have been seen some distance down the river. After going some miles a large commando of about 400 Boers were seen between our troops and the wagons, the enemy were too strong to engage so our troops had to retreat towards the camp, while the enemy kept following. Several Boers were killed by the shells, while two of our MI’s were wounded also one of their officers.

The pom-pom, on reaching camp, only had one belt of shells left, while the big gun fired all that there were in the limber.

Friday 18th Marched at 8am. A troop of 30 dismounted men were left in ambush at the farm where we had camped near, while the remainder of the column moved on as usual. A number of the troops, with several guns were left in a hollow, several miles from the farm as a reserve. After about an hour’s time, the reserve galloped back to the farm and found that they had captured one prisoner, the only one that came near. Camped that night at “Acholea”.

Saturday 19th We shifted camp about 4 miles during the morning. Several dead Boers were found, supposed to have been killed two days previous by the shells. At 8.45 just as number of us were saddling up our horses prior to going out on a night march, heavy firing was heard; any fires that were alight were immediately kicked out, and the troops rushed quietly to their allotted places where we remained until everything was quiet. Numbers of bullets were heard whistling through the camp, several tents were pierced, also a number of wagons, but luckily no-one was hit. At 10 pm 240 of the SA’s , 260 of the 6th MI and 3 guns , moved silently out of camp. It was very dark and wet, and had not gone many miles when the guns got lost, later on the MI ‘s with Col DeLisle were missed, who returned to camp, joined us with the guns in the morning. We journeyed on to the Wilge River which we reached at daylight. We remained here for some time until the guns hove in sight, and then returned to camp.

Sunday 20th at about 10am. We here found all the remaining troops in trenches and sangars built rough the guns which were in position, as it was expected the enemy would rush the camp, when most of the troops were on the night march. We were to have gone about 40 miles, to Reitz, were DeWet and Steyn were heard to be. The enemy sniped at us all the way back to camp, and one prisoner was captured

Monday 21st Camp was shifted about 4 miles during the afternoon. While a section of G battery RHA, which were with the rear guard, were in position on a kopie one of the guns burst, killing two of the gunners and wounding another. They had been firing rapidly at a number of Boers, in the rear, and were waiting for them to show up again, when without warning the gun went off, blowing the whole of the breach block away, completely disabling it.

Tuesday 22nd At 4am D Squadron SA and a company of the MI’s , with 2 guns, left camp. Soon after sunrise we encountered a commando of about 300 Boers, said to be under command of Marni Botha. We had some sharp firing for about an hour, when the pompom got jammed by a shell sticking in the barrel. This makes number four of our guns out of action. Being outnumbered , it was useless to go on, so we had to retire, very quickly at times. We were chased up ridge to ridge, reaching camp with two wounded and several horses hit. Moved camp to “Kaffirstad” at 2pm

Wednesday 23rd Marched 22 miles to “Worderpan” which was reached at 2pm. Rained best part of the day

Thursday 24th Moved at 7am Passing the “Maidens Breast” at midday, and camping at 4pm at “Druidsolui”

Friday 25th “Platolei” arrived at 1pm, heavy firing in the advance guard. Several of our MI’s wounded, while two Boers were picked up, killed by the Pom-pom.

Saturday 26th Moved at 4am. Marched 14 miles to DeLongs Drift “Klip River”, border ofg the Transvaal. Heavy firing in the rear guard all the morning, constant shelling, several MI’s hit.

Sunday 27th Marched at 6am, camping several miles from the town of “Standerton” at 10am. On Wednesday while still camped here, a most terrific thunderstorm broke over us, the rain coming down in sheets, while the thunder was almost deafening. It was out turn for outpost duty, and after taking out my bunk, returned to camp, thinking I could find my way out again, it was now pitch black, and after walking about leading my horse, for about an hour in pouring rain, gave it up, so returned to camp guided by the lights in the tents. I here spent a most “pleasant night”, being without blankets and my overcoat soaking wet.

Thursday 31st At midday all the troops, and guns from our column were ordered to be ready at 1.30pm to move out, camp to remain as it is, each man to take one blanket and an oil sheet which were placed on light transport wagons, did not see these until three nights afterwards. We left camp at 1.30, joined a number of other troops near the town, which we marched through. Here we were joined by Gen Bruce Hamilton, who took charge of the whole force, 5000 mounted men and 19 guns. We heard that one of our columns had met with a disaster which we were to relieve. We continued until 10pm, when we halted for the first time since leaving Standerton. We waited some time for a few transport wagons the we had to come up, and were then served out with biscuits and bully-beef. The transports were then left in charge of a party of troops with several guns, the remainder of us being on the move again at 11pm, continuing on until 5am on

Nov-01

Friday November 1st when we halted for an hour, while a thick fog was on; we here “fed up” both horse and man, it being very cold and damp. About 10 o’clock we came upon a large party of Boers, some 400 or 500 of them, these were shelled heavily, while the main party kept moving on. We were told afterwards by a prisoner that we captured, that ht enemy lost 11 killed and 2 wounded here. Halted again from 12 until 1pm, our squadron then put advance guard. At 2.30pm we saw figures of men on the sky line, word was sent back, and we were told that we had reached our destination, but to approach carefully, as probably the camp would be in possession of the enemy. Soon men were seen coming down the slope to meet us, and on meeting them, were told what an awful time that they had had. They belonged to Col Benson’s column, a force of 2200 men and 5 guns, and had not been able to shift out of their present camp, “ Brakenlaagte”, for 2 days during which most of them had been in trenches and sangas which they had dug. Their column had been surprised while on “trek” on Thursday, two days previous, during the heavy mist that prevailed at the time. Eight commandos had joined together from the different districts, under the command of Gen Louis Botha, De La Rey and other prominent Boer leaders, who said that on account of Col Benson doing them so much damage lately in the way of captures and night marches; that the Commandos in the districts near gathered together, to “Smash him Up” to use their words. Both sides had a great deal of “smashing”. There were about 4000 of the enemy, the first attack being on the rear guard, who were driven on. Two companies of Infantry, “The Buffs” were posted on a rise, but the enemy galloped through these men, as if no one was there. These infantry were afterwards all captured, taken away some distance, after being stripped allowed to go. Heavy firing was now going on round the guns; (Two of them ultimately being captured) great bravery was shown here, especially by the gunners, and the “Scottish Horse”, a Colonial Regiment; and out of one Company alone, 63 men were either killed or wounded. The teams of horses (8) in two of the guns were killed, and as the gunners and drivers brought up a spare team, they were also mown down, as well as 8 of the 10 men. These 2 guns were captured by the enemy, but were retaken again, a week or two after. They belonged to the 84th RFA. Their column camped about a mile from the scene, and the only ones allowed out of the camp until the relief arrived , were the men of the “RAMC”, who attended to the wounded and gathered up the dead. The British losses were 103 killed and 180 wounded, the wounded were taken into a town called “Springs” in 67 waggons. The Boer losses were estimated at 200 killed. Both Col Benson and Col Guiness of the guns were killed, Col Benson was wounded 4 times, and would not even then leave the guns which he was directing the fire, until he received one which proved fatal. Fifteen other Officers were also killed, a number in cold blood. During the whole of that night were the remaining men digging trenches, sangas, making bark wire entanglements all around their camp. The enemy were still about, and it was thought they would make another fight. When daylight came the field was seen to be covered with white objects, and it was found that they were the bodies of our dead, who had been stripped during the night, the arms of some being broken to get the tunics off, those that were of any use. Many were the stories told, as to the Boer cruelty, one being, shooting the wounded that fell in the firing line. The last of the Boers left the scene about 2 hours before our arrival. Our march to the relief was a record for the campaign, 621/2 miles in 18 hours. The news of the disaster was brought into Standerton by runners who got through the Boer lines. We camped at 3pm close to Benson’s column, and during the afternoon visited the scene.

Saturday 2nd Left on our return march at 6.45am. Number of wounded Boers were found in different farm houses, also saw one of their ambulance vans, which was trekking. Shortly after midday we met our provision and kit wagons, we then camped with “Hamiltons” and “Allenby’s “ columns. The party that brought on the convoy had 2 killed and 9 wounded coming through. All of us were very hungry at dinner time, but there was plenty for us to eat and drink. This being the first substantial meal for two days.

Sunday 3rd Up at 3am marching at 5, halting at midday until 4pm. Just after moving out the rain came down in torrents, with thunder and lightning. We were again the advance guard, and had a nice time of it. Rain continued to fall until 7pm and then cleared off, continued until we reached the outskirts of the town.

Monday 4th at 1230am. We camped here until daylight, when we again started on the move through the town, to our old camp, here finding a splendid meal waiting for us, as several men from our troop were left in camp, who said that they had not had such a good time since being in the country.

Rained again all the afternoon, and remained camped here until 7an, on

Wednesday 6th Halting at midday for several hours at Commandant Scheepers Farm, and reaching Langes Drift at 5.30pm

Thursday 7th Long march to “Vrede” which was reached at 6pm, camping near the town

Friday 8th Left at 3pm reaching “Dripspruit “ at dark. Soon after we started, a very heavy thunderstorm came on, lasting for several hours.

Saturday 9th Marched at 2pm , camping again just before dark. A party f our squadron were on outpost at a farm, about 3 miles from camp, and at 7pm rain came down in torrents, accompanied by terrific thunder and lightning, lasted for about an hour. At 11pm, 400 troops passed us on a night march, joining again the next day , but were unsuccessful.

Sunday 10th Reached “Leewo Kop”, at midday. Rear guard sniped at the whole way. At 4pm D squadron, 150 7th Dragoon Guards, 2 companies of 6th MI’s and 2 guns left camp, marching until 8pm when we camped at a farm house until early next morning

Monday 11th marching to the Wilge River which we found to be in flood, and could not cross with our horses. Numbers of enemy were seen on the opposite side of the river, and were constantly shelled. We remained here for some hours. When volunteers were asked to swim the river, a number from our squadron volunteered, but the current was too strong for anyone to swim across, so one of the men said that he would go across on a wire, that was there, which the Boers used as a pulley to drag a small punt across, the punt now being on the opposite side, he had to go over on this single wire, about 100 yards and between 20 and 30 feet above the stream. Reaching the other sire in safety, the punt was pulled over, and by this means, a party of 7 or 8 crossed. A farm several hundred yards from the river was “rushed:, where a single Boer had been seen to enter, but on the men reaching it, a woman with several children were found, who were all very much alarmed , after recrossing, preparations were made for the homeward journey; and shortly after dark we started back. After marching 17 miles, we reached a drift, where the column had crossed that day. It was now midnight. The drift was a very bad one, and what with the river being in flood it was very awkward. The convoy belonging to our column took from midday until 4am the next morning to cross. When we arrived at the Drift several of the teams were in the middle of the stream, with the poor Kaffirs trying their utmost to shift the bullocks.

The stream here was about 200 yards wide and on account of the convoy trying to cross, we had to find the best crossing we could, after going in about 50 yards, got into deep water, our horses having to swim the remainder of the distance. All or most of us were wet through. The Cape Cart which had our only prisoner in it got stuck in the middle; a rope was passed, to the Kaffir in charge and it was dragged ashore but no prisoner. The Kaffir said “only see hat, Boss’. An Officer of the MI’s was also washed away with his horse. Reached the camp at 1.20am.

Tuesday 12th when we quietly told that we had 10 minutes to get rations etc before we moved out again. A double issue of rum was issued out, with the usual lot of biscuits and bully. The usual growling and cursing went on with cries of “hobble him” and “Put his nose bag on” etc, etc,; but before 2 o’clock were again on the march under “Fanny” De Lisle, left camp during the night with another party. We marched until daylight, and then we could see troops in every direction. All the troops from thirteen columns within a radius of 50 miles “closed in “ to a certain spot, but the move was unsuccessful, we did not see a single Boer, although we heard the usual yarn, that 1400 of the enemy were in the circle, but got “through” during the night. Continued marching until 2pm, camping for the night at ”Vlakfontein”, thoroughly “Knocked out” our squadron having been out, three nights in succession.

Wednesday 13th Moved to “Driftfontein”

Thursday 14th Marched at 5am, halting at midday for several hours, camping at 5pm

Friday 15th Reached “Majors Drift”

Saturday 16th Camped 5 miles from Harrismith

Sunday 17th Church Service at 7.30am

General Elliott and Staff were present, who came over from Gen Broadwoods column. After the service Gen Elliott, presented Col Fanshawe, of the Oxford Light Infantry and Lieut Longley IBC with the “Order of the Distinguished Service”

Monday 18th Marched at 5am. Nine other columns working with us in a Southerly direction. Heavy rain during the afternoon

Wednesday 20th Camped at “Morfontein” at 5pm

Thursday 21st Very cold and wet. Pass the very rough hilly country. Several Boers were captured hiding in a cave. Camped at “Modderfontein”. At midnight D Squadron with 1 Company 6 MI’s left camp, and marched back to Morfontein where a number of the enemy were said to be. After “rushing” several farms we captured one, the only Boer seen. The guns with several squadrons of troops, who came as reinforcements joined us at sunrise.

Returned to camp, reaching there at 10am

Friday 22nd Marched again at 2pm to “Peerle” which is at the extreme end of this range of hills, the “Lange Bey”

Saturday 23rd Bethlehem Bridge reached during the morning, camping here until 5am

Sunday 24th marching through the town camping at midday. Eight Boers were captured by a patrol that went out in the afternoon. At 9pm the whole column moved, leaving the convoy at 10.30 am in charge of Col Lowe’s column. Marched through the night until 2am

Monday 25th halting until day break (4am) Shortly after sunrise we passed at “Salt Mine’ which the Boers had left early in the morning. Quantity of cattle and horses captured here. At 11am we camped at “Elandsfontein”, joined by the convoy during the afternoon.

Tuesday 26th “Plesierfontein”

Wednesday 27th Marched at 3am, D Squadron advance guard, soon after sunrise, about 5.30 we were sent out on the left flank several miles to look for Boer scouts. We had just left a freshly ploughed field , where we broke up several ploughs etc, and were advancing towards a small rise, when we were suddenly fired upon from our front, and left flank, from a ridge about 300 yards off, the only thing for our troops to do was to go to cover, which was a small rise to our right. We circled around towards the enemy, and were immediately joined by the remainder of the squadron, and saw more troops coming from the column, where they had heard the firing, sending out a gun. Dismounting behind a ridge we fired a couple of volleys at the enemy on the ridge in front; mounting again we immediately charged, the enemy at once retired, and we chased them for several miles, but could not catch any of them, they knowing all the country , and their horses fleeter than most of ours.

One man had (in our troop) five bullets through his tunic and overcoat; two of our scouts were captured, and relieved of their rifles etc, while the other two threw their rifles down in the thick grass. We also lost 2 horses. Returning to the column, we halted until 10am.

At midday, when on a high kopje, wagons were sighted about 10 miles on our left flank. Our squadron was immediately sent out after them, followed by F Squadron, 1 company of 6th MI’s and 2 guns. We captured 1 Boer on our way and at 1.30pm after galloping nearly all the way, we came within range of the convoy, the enemy, about 150, with the wagons scattered in all directions and started sniping from the rocky ridges some distance from the wagons, but they gradually left us the main party came up. The wagons were turned back over the drift, and lined up, and after the bullocks were outspanned, and the women who were with the convoy to take what they wanted, the whole lot, 34 wagons and 6 carts were burnt. We also captured 3400 cattle and 7000 sheep. Three of the enemy were wounded including a field cornet. We had two wounded. Left at 4pm and joined the column, which was camped, at 7pm. In “Orders” our squadron was “specially Complimented” by the Colonel.

Thursday 28th “Pardeekraal”

Friday 29th “Rosepan”

Saturday 30th “Klipkraal”.

Dec-01

Sunday December 1st Marched at 5am, camping at 8.30 several miles north of “Kroonstad”. Remaining here until 4pm,

Tuesday 3rd, marching along the line of blockhouses which are being built to Lindley, 35 miles from Kroonstad. Camped at “Borchgas Spruit”

Wednesday 4th to “Dorm Kop”

Thursday 5th Marched at 5am to “Kalfontein”

Friday 6th Camped at “Dorn Kloof” until

Sunday 8th marching a few miles at 3am

Monday 9th Reached “Dewarden Woolwash” a very pretty spot on the “Leibenburgolei River”. Three Boers, and several wagons captured during the afternoon. Heavy rain

Tuesday 10th March at 5am to “Precy Lush”. Joined the troops who went out during the night at 10am, capturing 5 Boers, some wagons and a number of cattle.

Thursday 12th While the column was halkted at midday, very heavy rifle and big gun fire was heard, some miles off, A short while after a “Helio” message came saying that help was wanted. Two guns and 300 men were at once sent out but we had not gone many miles, when a message came through that all was right again. The column had 23 casualties. Joined our column at “Blesbokfontein”

Friday 13th During the morning we were joined by the troops and guns who had been out on a night march, After 400 Boers, supposed to be De Wet, and Commands, who were within the circle of columns. Col Remmington captured his convoy which were mainly Cape Carts. Camped at dark at “Roodespoorte”, within sight of line of blockhouses.

Saturday 14th Reached “Quaggafontein” to 9am. Our troop with our Officer had a pleasant time, with a party of 15 Boers, who had been trying to drive off a mob of sheep. They got on a kopje about a mile from us and for several hours, kept firing, on hearing the report we just ducked our heads behind the breastwork that we had made. Then we would hear the bullets fly over us. We replied to every shot

Sunday 15th Halt for the day. Church Service at 7am. The last five days trekking was a record for the campaign.

Monday 16th Marched at 6am halting for several hours at midday, and camping at “Quefontein” at dark

Tuesday 17th to “Middlesplaats”

Wednesday 18th 4.30 am to “Kruisfontein” . Official report of captures from the 8th to 13th inst

Division, out of which DeLisle’s Brigade captured

Horses 660 530

Mules 19 19

Cattle 1754 1248

Waggons 71 67

Carts 52 48

Sheep 13250 133250

Prisoners 18 12

Rifles 22 20

Ammunition 1118 Rounds 1058

Grain 3493 bags 3493

DeLisle’s Brigade also captured 1 Traction engine and Mill

Thursday 19th Marched at 4.30 through Lindley to “Quaggafontein”

Friday 20th “Kalfontein”

Saturday 21st Shifted camp a few miles to near “Doorn Kloof”. Col De Lisle left us in the afternoon, to take command of General Broadwood’s Column, he also took with him the 6th MI’s, and G Battery RHA which were replaced by the 82nd Battery RFA, and 500 Imperial Yeomanry, Colonel Fanshawe now taking command of our column.

Sunday 22nd to “Palmeitfontein” We had easy marches until

Wednesday 25th. “Christmas Day”. Shifted camp several miles to “Parrd-Fontein”. Very dull cloudy morning. We had an excellent dinner. Including a 1 lb tin of plum-pudding, and a pint of beer, both being Army Issues.

In the afternoon a cricket match was played between the IY’S and SA”s resulting in a win for SA, the score being 68 and 83. Just as we were finishing our tea , a very heavy thunderstorm broke over the camp, the rain lasting all night. The concert which was to have been held, had to be postponed on account of the weather. We were very lucky in having tents for the wet weather, and spent an enjoyable evening, through the kindness of ouir troop leader.

Thursday 26th to “Quaggafontein”

Friday 27th marched at 4.30 am to Middlewater, reached at midday. Camped with DeLisle’s troop who had been on a night march, capturing 8 prisoners and 25 saddled horses. Hear of De Wet’s attack on Col Ferman’s camp, Christmas morning, resulting in a loss of life and guns. De Wet is now in our vicinity with 2000 men. Column now laagered up in a new formation in case of attack, our front line of troops covering half a mile.

Saturday 28th Marched at 4.30 am, halted at midday until 2pm. At about 4m the column laagered up at a farm while all the troops and guns moved on ; (also DeLisle who is working with us). At about 5.30 the advance were fired on, and shortly afterwards the enemy’s Pom-pom started shelling in among our troops, our guns were now ordered up which came at a gallop, and for over an hour 9 of them were continually shelling. The enemy had 5 in action including 2 captured at “Tweefontein” on the 25th from Col Ferman. The guns fired by the enemy were in a splendid position, on top of a Kopje, which had a good retainment, and were surrounded by low stone walls, our guns did excellent work. While the enemy also fired well, shells continually bursting near us, and around our guns, we were to have crossed this and charged the kopje, had not darkness come on. We retired at 7.50pm the Pom-pom wishing them a good night. Reached camp at 10.30pm

Sunday 29th Marched at 4.30am, continuing in until 5pm, having seen very few of the enemy. Covered 35 miles during the day, camping at “Elands Kop”

Monday 30th Enemy very troublesome. Our Squadron on the right flank, at one time when about 6 miles form the column, we engaged a strong party of Boers who proved too many for us, a reinforcement coming up to help them. We had to retire, not having any support, and were chased several miles. The enemy charged the rear guard during the morning, but were driven back. Reached “Schits Kop” at 3pm

Tuesday 31st Halt for the day, supplies being sent out from the line of blockhouses.

Total Captures from April 7th to December 31st

Horses 39270 Mules 65 Killed 79

Cattle 35313 Waggons 1359 Wounded 48

Sheep 586987 Carts 568 Prisoners 497

Trek Oxen 5278 Rifles 391 Refugees 5209

Rounds of ammunition 38759

Jan-02

Wednesday January 1st 1902

Started the New Year well by turning out at 1am, marching at 2.30, all troops on patrol. Camped at “Wondruth” during the afternoon joined by “Byngs Column”

Thursday 2nd 3am camping at 5.30pm. The three columns now working together, the troops from two covering a large area of country, while the remaining troops guard the whole of the baggage etc alternately.

Friday 3rd 4am Our troops, and Col Byngs patrolling g (about 4000) A large number of the enemy sighted; by midday they were lost to sight. Camped at dark at “Driftfontein” having covered 40 miles.

Saturday 4th to “Susanna” enemy constantly sniping. At 8pm the SA’ with a few IYs left camp. Very dark and wet night. Continue marching until 4am

Sunday 5th when we took up positions at a drift, and along a ridge, remaining here until 7am when we were joined by the column, having seen nothing of the enemy. Camped at “Sodafontein”

Monday 6th Reached “ Mulshoop” at midday

Tuesday 7th Marched at 2.30am halting for breakfast at 7 until 8am. Number of the enemy following the rear guard. “Grootolee”

Wednesday 8th At 2.30am all available troops left camp unexpectantly. When the order was given to turn out, there was never so much seasonable language heard before; we now had to bustle around for rations etc, and we heard that DeWet with his guns were between us and the railway line. Soon after sunrise we sighted De Lisle’s troops on our left rear. Halted from 10 till 11

Shortly after dinner the enemy was sighted and we chased them from ridge to ridge, knocking our horses out; sighted many more during the afternoon, lining all the ridges, but our horses were now so done up it was useless to continue on, so we turned back, continuing until 11.30pm all thoroughly done up, having 19 hours in the saddle that day. We rested here as best we could until 4.30 am.

Thursday 9th When we moved off and joined the column camped at Dorm Kloof

Friday 10th Marched at 6am to “Quaggafontein”. Remained camped in the vicinity until

Thursday 16th protecting the line of blockhouses being built to Lindley. During most of the week it rained heavily. All the SA s with 2 guns escorted a convoy from “Dorm Kloof” to “Quagga”, which is now main headquarters for the division, there being a “Detail Camp” formed here, also a large Field Hospital. Very stormy, wet night, numbers of the tents blown down.

Friday 17th and following day, we escorted a convoy to “Wit Kop”, half way to “Kaffir Kop”, where Col De Lisle is protecting the line of blockhouses being built there from Lindley, about 30 miles.

Sunday 19th After Church Parade which was held at 9.00 am General E.L.Elliot presented Corp Kermode of the SA’s with a DCM won at “Grootvallie” on the morning of August 2nd. At 8pm C,D and F Squadrons SA moved from camp in a northerly direction. It was a very cold, and stormy night. After searching a number of farms during the night, we were unsuccessful until about 4.30am.

Monday 20th daybreak, we captured 9 Boers, part of a Commando of 200, who had been warned of our coming, we also captured several Cape carts and some good horses. No shots were fired at the farm, but it commenced as soon as we left at sunrise, the enemy being seen in large numbers. We marched back about 5 miles, where we took up a good position, and waited the arrival of our relief, 300 men and 4 guns, but only 1 more was captured. Arrived back at camp at 3pm.

Tuesday 21st and the day following, we escorted more convoys to “Wit Kop” for De Lisle

Thursday 23rd at 8pm all the SA’s left camp, for south of the blockhouses. Had th3e usual rush on all the farms, but only found women and children. At 2.30 am

Friday 24th we had to halt for about an hour, on account of the thick mist, but as soon as it lifted we charged down on a large farm, but on reaching it we found the Red Cross flag flying. There were several Boers inside the building. We turned back here at sunrise with the enemy sniping freely from the ridges, shortly after numbers were seen going ahead of us. Another lot of troopers, which left at 10pm last night now showed up, several miles away on our left, and it now became difficult to tell the enemy from our own men, numbers of them being dressed in khaki uniforms. Firing now became general which lasted several hours. Continuing on we chased the enemy, who gradually drew away from us, their horses being fresh. Our party lost 1 killed, 3 wounded, and 13 captured, including the Brigade Major who was taken away along with other men and stripped of everything, the Boers exchanging their canvas, skin and leather clothes for our uniforms. One man in my troop was captured and we also lost 2 horses. Five opf the enemy were captured and a number wounded. Col Fenshawe who was in charge of another party had a very narrow escape. Reached camp at 10am.

Sat 25th Trooper Horsfall who was killed yesterday, was buried during the morning. Very wet day

Sunday 26th and the following day we escorted convoy to “Dorm Kloof” and “Wit Kopie”

Tuesday 28th Left “Quaggafontein at 6am camping at “Vinkfontein midday

Wednesday 29th Reached “Blauss Kop”

Thursday 30th Everything ready to move at 6am, but had to wait for orders from Pretoria. Expecting to move at any minute. At 4pm a patrol of SA’s and IY’s left camp and returned at dark with several prisoners

Friday 31st Marched at 4.30am, halting at midday for several hours, camping at dark

Feb-02

Saturday February 1st to “Tweefontein” the scene of Col Furman’s disaster. During the afternoon a number of us visited the scene, which was about a mile from camp, the losses there by the British were 6 Officers and 51 men killed, and 2 guns captured, which were retaken some time after

Sunday 2nd To “Witkop” reached shortly after midday. Col Barker crossed our front to work on our left flank

Monday 3rd Started on the first big “Sweeping Movement”, fourteen columns taking part in the drive, driving the enemy to the main railway line. Our column covering a frontage of about 6 miles. After dark our Squadron were sent halfway between the camp and “Blauss Kop”, where a force of Yoemanry were sent, between the “Kop” and our camp, scouts patrolled during the whole night.

Tuesday 4th A number of the enemy were seen in front, and during the morning crossed our front, where they bumped into “ Byngs Column” which is working next to us on our right, and during the day he captured from the enemy, 2 Pom poms, 1 15 pndr gun, 2maxims and 30 prisoners. The troops from each column now in touch with each other. Camped at 5pm. Squadrons of men being placed every 500 yards. About 9pm a party of Boers tried to break through our lined but were driven back. Later in the night they tried Col De Lisle’s but were again driven back with losses on both sides. One of the MI Officers while visiting the posts was mistaken for the enemy, fired upon and killed

Wednesday 5th Halted until dark, when we shifted about 1 mile. Sentries posted at intervals of 50 yards, the whole distance between the Lindley and Frankfort line of blockhouses

Thursday 6th Marched at 6am, continuing on until dark. The enemy numbering about 1000 with De wet, expected to try and break through now that we are nearing the line. All troops and guns placed behind breastworks which are always made after dark. Sentries being posted at 10 yard interval. During the night the enemy tried to get through Col Rawlinson’s line, but was driven back with a loss of 6 killed and 18 captured and wounded.

Friday 7th Camp struck at 5am marching on until sunset. Shortly after dark we shifted our position back for over a mile, troops camped in long lines with sentries every 5 yards. Firing could be distinctly heard, coming from a northerly direction, while the flashes from the search lights on the armoured trains, while patrolling the line could be seen at intervals

Saturday 8th Everyone up early and standing to arms until daybreak. We were now joined by a number of troops from Barkers column, and scouting around to our right working north to the railway line which we struck at ”Honnings Spruit”. At “Serfonyein” we saw one of the armoured trains in action. They were firing at a large number of springboks which were mistaken for the enemy. Reached “Rhenoster Rioce” at 4pm where we camped for the night. We were worked out of the move, “De Lisle” taking our place. Everyone was glad that we were now finished, as most of us had been on duty five nights in succession.

Sunday 9th Marched at 5am, halting at midday for 2 hours at “Kopie Siding” camping at dark at “ America Siding”

Monday 10th Arrived at “Kroonstad” camping several miles from the town until

Wednesday 12th when we shifted at 3pm south of the drift crossing “Valsch River”. Total captures for the move 440 prisoners, 43 killed. Also a quantity of cattle captired.

Thursday 13th Marched at 4am, camping at sunset, but shifted to a better position shortly after dark.

Friday 14th moved at daylight. Nothing to be seen of the enemy. C and D Squadrons were detached from the main camp after dark, taking up separate positions.

Sunday 16th Reached “Lindley- Kaffir” Kop line of blockhouses, camped near No 111 “Sweethome”. Just as we were turning in fir the night, orders were issued for 500 men to move out at 8. 15pm, and at that time we were joined by 500 more men from “DeLisle’s camp”. Heard that DeWet with 200 Bergers were at “Elands Kop”. After a very weary march of 35 miles lasting all night, sighting the Kop at daybreak,

Monday 17th We halted for half an hour when about a mile off, in a deep valley there opened out, and galloped towards the Kopie, disturbing a number of Boers at the different farms who galloped ahead the best way they could; the chase was continued, and 13 of the enemy were captured. Soon after we turned back, the rear guard was kept very busy, until 1.30pm when we were joined by the guns and relieving troops. We camped shortly afterwards.

Tuesday 18th Marched at 6am and reached camp at 10pm, several miles from Lindley. Halting here until

Thursday 20th At 8pm all the troops and guns were to have moved out but were cancelled until 1am

Friday 21st when we started out on the second “Great Drive” organised by Lord Kitchener. We continued on in conjunction with De Lisle’s troops and guns until 11am. Numbers of the enemy were seen but went ahead not troubling us. We camped at midday, and soon after a heavy rain storm came on, and not having anything in the way of blankets, oil sheets etc, we had to wait until 4pm when we were joined by our convoy, spending a most miserable afternoon.

Saturday 22nd Moved at 5.30am. enemy still ahead , but not troubling us. At 2.30 pm the column camped, while C,D and F Squadrons, with the Pom-Pom and a machine gun moved on to the “Wilge River” to “hold a drift”, but on reaching it we found that it was held by troops from “Col Wilson’s column. We camped close by, rejoining the column

Sunday 23rd at 9am, marching until late that afternoon.

Mondsay 24th Camped at 4.45 pm near the Wilge River. Troops from the column holding about 8 miles of the river. Rain started to fall at dark, which continued on through the night, and as “no kits” were allowed on outpost we did not have too nice a time.

Tuesday 25th Shortly after we started, the rearguard, and right flank, escorting the convoy, which was composed of I.Y’s were engaged for several hours by “Ross’ Commando”, which had broken through the driving line the day previous. The rifle fire was very heavy at times, and the enemy was not repulsed until reinforcements were sent back. The Yeomanry sustained 7 casualties. At midday we had to halt for several hours, to allow the column on our left to “swing around”.

Wednesday 26th Marched at 4.45 am halting from 9 until 1 pm camping at dark near “Majors Drift”

Thursday 26th At 12.40am we were awakened by heavy firing coming from our left, and the rattle of the machine gun could be distinctly heard, this continued on for about an hour. We were immediately turned out, and in ten minuted time we were lined out with a pom-pom ready to move out in case the enemy tried to break through our own lines. Hey rushed De Lisle’s lines and tried to break through, but were driven back with losses on both sides. D squadron were complimented by the OC in orders for being the first to turn out. At 7am all the SA’s with 2 pom-poms moved along the line of trenches from Majors Drift to Harrismith, which were held for the last 5 days and nights, by troops from the Harrismith command. We continued on until we reached the Bethlehem line, where we worked out of the move, rejoining the column at 2pm, camped at “Elands River Bridge”.

Rained heavily during the afternoon and evening.

Friday 28th Halt for the day. Total results for the move 1082 prisoners, and 28000 head of cattle captured. The captured included 69 Boers killed and wounded. “Marnie Botha”, one of the Free State best Commandants was among the killed. The whole capture, was the biggest since “Prinsloos” surrender. The success of the drive was thoroughly deserved; everybody from the Commanders down, worked with admirable spirit and great zeal. In this drive all the columns operating, started in different directions, giving the enemy no indication of the new combination. After several days trekking from the time of starting the move took definite shape, some of the columns doubling back into the line, and to enclose the enemy within the line and the Wilge River, the Vaal and the Klip Rivers on the Natal frontier, then driving on to the Harrismith line. It is estimated that on one day during the move, an extended line of 120 miles was held by the troops of the operating columns, both day and night. The following columns took part-: Rawlinson’s; Remington’s; Byng; Nixon; Keir’s; Wilson; Scott’s; Briggs; Garrett’s; Barker; Holmes; Plumers; De Lisle; and our own (Fanshawe). The country at the northern end of the line was exceptionally rough, taking Col Scott’s column the whole day to cover 12 miles, it was found impossible to get over the country with the few wagons comprising his convoy, so they were left, wagons and contents burned.

Mar-02

Saturday March 1st After getting supplies we marched at 3pm to “Tweefontein”

Sunday 2nd “Tigers Kloof”, halting until

Tuesday 4th marching at 5am camping again at dark

Wednesday 5th Moved at 6am, through Reetz. A number of us visited the graves of our men, who fell at Grafspan, and we found that new crosses had been made, and erected by the 3rd New South Wales MI. Today we are in position for the third Sweeping Movement, towards “Wolverhook”, on the main railway line

Thursday 6th Camped near “Frankfort” at 1.30pm halting until

Sunday 9th After dark sangas were dug, and 10 men posted in each at intervals of about 50 to 100 yards, 2 men being on watch at a time in each sanga. About 10pm a despatch rider went along the line, reporting a large party of Boers ahead, and would probably try to break through about daylight. They tried to make way though the line some distance south of us.

Monday 10th Marched from sunrise until dark. Our squadron was in lying picquet, and had just bunked down when 20 of us were ordered to saddle up, and go and strengthen the sangas, at the end of our line, next to De Lisle’s troops, which were about 4 miles from our camp.

Tuesday 11th Passed Heilbron on our left, marching across the Frankfort, Heilbron Blockhouse line, to “Elands Kop”, six miles north of the town, where we camped at midday, expecting to remain there several days, as we had drawn out of the move. At 2 o’clock C, D and E squadrons SA’s, 600 IY’s and 4 guns were ordered to be ready to move out in half an hour; everyone was now ruching ablout, packing up our kits (which we did not take) drawing rations etc for two days, we also had to take 10lbs of oats for our horses. At 2.30 we moved out. We were to chase a party of 400 Boers that had been allowed to pass the blockhouses near Heilbron early that morning; where the enemy crossed was about 6 miles from Heilbron; where the blockhouses are about 800 yards apart, and in between these, during the “Driols”, sangas are built occupied troops, at intervals of 200 yards. Not a shot was fired by either side. “The Rotters”! After going steadily for about an hour, orders were given to “trot”, which is generally a good swinging canter, which we did on this occasion. A number of horses soon began to drop back on account of us having so much work lately, and the pace that they were going. The horse that I rode, a Russian remount, was soon in the rear, and another young fellow in the same troop was with me. At last I had to leave my horse, which I shot, and mounted a spare pony that we had. The troops were now miles ahead, and out of sight, we followed their tracks until it got too dark to see them, and going on slowly until we thought we had missed the troops. Our party now numbered five, and we thought of camping, several times not knowing whether we were going into enemy hands or not. At 9 o’clock as we mounted the top of a ridge we saw fires ahead which we knew to be our camp, and in (app) another hour we were again among our own men, just in time for a good meal and some tea, but thoroughly tired out. The troops had come in touch with the enemy, but after a short engagement, the enemy worked ahead, their horses being comparatively fresh. Several of the IYs were wounded

Wednesday 12th Moved on at daylight, reaching the banks of the Klep River at 6 o’ clock in heavy fog, not knowing what was ahead , and being useless going on in the fog, Col Fenshawe immediately turned back; halting at midday for an hour, and reached “Elands Kop” at 5pm having covered 80 miles in the two days.

Thursday 13th Heavy rain during the night. The column remained camped for the day.

Friday 14th Marched AT 6am, through Heilbron, a very pretty and strongly fortified town. Camped at midday at “Rhenoster River”.

Saturday 15th Marched in company with De Lisle’s column to “Potgeiters Rush”.

Sunday 16th Camped two miles north of Kroonstad at 11am. Soon after camping rain came down in torrents, but cleared off during the afternoon.

Monday 17th Anxiously waited for orders, as our time is now up (for b) There were numerous rumours circulated throughout the day. At night we were on outpost, and at 9pm we could hear loud cheering, we then knew what that meant so one of the men went into camp for the news. He soon came galloping out with the welcome news that we were to entrain in a few days for home. There was great excitement in camp until late that night.

Tuesday 18th General Elliot, addressed our Regiment in the morning, complimenting us on our work, and wishing us a safe passage home. He also read out the work done by the South Australians alone, which he said was a great credit.

Trecked 3890 miles Carts captured 409

Cattle captured 33880 Boers captured 225

Horses captured 11216 Boers Killed 26

Waggons captured 535 Boers Wounded 31

Wednesday 19th At 10 o’clock our Regiment was lined up, and addressed by Col Fanshawe, who was much liked by all under him; after speaking in reference to our work, he wished us all a pleasant and safe voyage home, where he hoped we would find all our friends and relatives in the best of health. Cheers were then given for Cols Fanshawe and De Lisle. We were then marched off, amid cheers from our old friends , headed by a piper of the “Gordons”, belonging to the 6th MI. Reached our camp inside the town limits about a mile from the station, here to remain until arrangements were made to convey us down the line.

Saturday 22nd Received orders to entrain at 10.30am. There was no time wasted in packing up, drawing supplies to last us until the Cape, and at 11.40am all were bundled into trucks, and the journey started. Reached “Ventersburg Road’ 2pm where we stayed for 50 minutes, Smalldeal 5.35 – Brandfort 8.40 pm “Bloemfontein” was reached at 10.56, departing

Sunday 23rd at 1.35 am, Edenburg 4.55, Springfontein 8.15, “Norvals Pont at 11am staying here for half an hour where we had breakfast, it being the first place we could get boiling water for tea. At most of the stations, boiling water is always ready for the troops that are travelling. Colesburg, (junc) at 1.17 pm, reaching “Naapoort Junction” at 3.44 remaining here until 5.25.

We had timed to reach “De Arr” at 9.30 but did not get in until somewhere about midnight. Wet night.

Monday 24th Had breakfast at “Victoria West Road”. From hewre to Renosterkop which we reached at 1pm we passed through hilly country. “Beaufort West” 4pm lraving again at 5. “Frazerburg Road” at dark. Verycold night.

Tuesday 25th Reached “Touers River Station” at 8am. This place is 6500 feet above sea level. A few miles from the station we started to go up the “Hex Riou Mountains” which are very high and rocky, but bare of any growth. From the top we got an excellent view, and the scenery on looking down the valley was magnificent. We now started on the decent, the grade being very steep, soon after passing the one and only tunnel, we came upon a grand piece of scenery, the zig-zag line below us; and away in the distance a small town surrounded by vinyards etc. Passing “Hex River Station”, where we obtained a splendid lot of quinces out of the garden at the station, we travelled along the side of the river for a short distance to the end of the mountains, where we saw the town of “Worcester” which we reached at midday. We were taken to a siding near the station, to wait for orders to proceed to Cape Town. We were allowed to go into the town, which is the third oldest in Cape Colony, water from the river running on either side of the streets, avenues of oak and gum trees being planted in every street, and the houses, shops and ale building being painted white. The town has a population of 5000 people. At 9 o’clock we again started our journey.

Wednesday 26th Arrive Cape Town at 6am. After 4 days in the trucks we were glad to get out of them. As soon as everything was unloaded, we were marched to “Green Point”, several miles from the city, here we found everything ready for us, tents etc being put up. In the afternoon leave was granted, most of us taking the opportunity to go into town.

Thursday 27th All overseas Colonials (1700) who were now at Green Point, were to have been paraded and addressed by the Governor of the City, but owing to the death of the Right Hon Cecil Rhodes, it had to be abandoned. The South Australians were lined up on our own grounds and addressed by our Commanding Officer Major Shea DSO. After speaking in reference to our work etc he handed us over to the command of Capt Watt. During the day several of us journeyed to “Camps Bay” about 6 miles from the town, by the electric trams. The scenery to the bay is very pretty, travelling the whole distance close to the seashore, with the “Lions Rump” towering above you.

Footnote

Trooper Edwards: Returned to Australia: 27 April 1902 on Manchester Merchant

Enlisted on 29th January 1901 aged 22 years and 5 months

He passed away December 22, 1947 at Glenelg, South Australia

He is buried in the Brighton North Cemetery with his parents Thomas Edwards and Elizabeth

FIFTH SOUTH AUSTRALIAN CONTINGENT IN MINATURE

5TH SOUTH AUSTRALIAN IMPERIAL BUSHMEN

• Original strength: 316

• Subunits: three mounted rifle squadrons

• Commanding officer: Major W. Scriven then Major H. L. D. Wilson

• Left for South Africa: 9 February 1901 on Ormazon

• Service: March 1901-March 1902 under de Lisle in Free State including defence of Graspan where five dead (6 June 1901) and charge at Grootvlei (2 August 1901); amalgamated with 6th SA Imperial Bushmen May 1901-March 1902 under Major J. S. M. Shea

• Fatal casualties: nine killed or died of wounds, 10 died of disease

• Decorations: two DSOs (E. J. F. Langley, J. A. Watt), two DCMs (J. Berry, T. Kermode)

• Returned to Australia: 27 April 1902 on Manchester Merchant

• Useful sources: A. G. Wellington letters and Hipwell scrapbook (Mortlock Library, D733L and PRG183)

Transcribed and notes by Captain Chris Stokes ( 3/9 SAMR Retd)