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Part 1 of 3- March 15th to June 30th 1901
I dedicate this reproduction To My Grandfather and the family that follows in his footsteps A Year in
From A Diary kept by Maurice Myles Witts 15/March/1901 to 20/April/1902
~~~~~~ Being a brief record of the Life~~~~~~ ~~of a Soldier~~ ~~On active Service in
~~~~Daily Diary~~~~
“Stuck in heavy marchin’ order, sopped and wringin’ Feelin’ sick just to see ‘er ‘eave and fall. Ere’s yer ‘appy ‘ome at last; and stop yer singin’. “’Alt! “ Fall in on the troop deck”. Silence all!
Kipling
[Sketch copied from the original diary] Forward Paul Jones ---------------------- The original diary “A year in
Jack arranged to have the diary published but later realised the connections to my mother’s family. He and Frank agreed that on the conclusion of their use of the diary, the original should be returned to the family of Helen Wilson (nee Witt, now deceased).
As the owner of this manuscript, I would like to share it with you. I have kept the Syntax and Spelling as close as possible to the original document. Here is a very brief background leading up to the events described, so well, in my grandfather’s diary.
After the end of the ‘Napoleonic Wars’
control of the ‘Cape of Good Hope was acquired by Great Britain in 1814, - this
put the then occupants – (Dutch speaking farmers) under British jurisdiction.
There was an ongoing Culture clash, and ideological differences, that
culminated in 1833, when A compromise was eventually reached
between the British and the Dutch Boers. Between 1842 and 1848, 12,000 Boers
migrated beyond the Orange River- some in the mountains of the Drakensberg,
Zulu country in the The British became dissatisfied by this
arrangement; invading the area occupied by the emigrants. Sever resistance by
the Boers continued until 1852 when an agreement was reached at Great reserves of diamonds and then
gold were discovered in the Gold was discovered at Witwatersrand Reef 1885. – The gold rush that ensued was mainly by non-Boer settlers. An attempt in 1896 by a Cecil Rhodes backed coup to change the Boer government by force (The Jameson Raid) failed. Not getting improved rights for the British, - along with the increasing efforts by the Boer Government to join with German South West Africa- prompted the British to plan an all out attack. In 1899 the Boer government pre-empted this and under Paul Kruger, attacked first-The Boers successfully besieged the British garrisons in the towns of Ladysmith, Mafeking and Kimberley in the later part of 1899.- British
reinforcements arrived on 14th February 1900. After this the
tide of battle started to turn in favour of the British and there were
numerous battles, with horrendous casualties on both side. - The British
policy as they gained ground was to destroy and burn, coupled with the
evacuation of all women, children, and old men to concentration camps. The
conditions in these camps were very harsh. Many deaths, especially amongst
the young and old, were caused by meagre rations, lack of facilities and lack
of proper medical attention. The Boers were slowly driven back until by the
time that by Grandfather’s diary begins (15th March 1901) the
British had well and truly gained the upper hand. My Grandfather left
25,000 Boers and 22,000 troops under British control were killed.
A Year in
March 15 1901
The camp
was astir an hour before dawn this morning. It was an eventful day for us
inasmuch as we are at last to leave The rain has never ceased since daylight, and already some of the lighter parcels show their impatience, by starting down the road “on their own”. By noon, however, our regiment- the 2nd Mounted Rifles- was wending its slushy way through the picturesque streets of Wooloomooloo, amid a deluge of rain. A few small urchins, whose total disregard of the elements seemed to be their only redeeming characteristic -followed up cheering lustily. These small Job’s comforters seemed to take much delight in impressing on us the fact the “gettin shot” would be worse nor [sic] walking through muddy streets. Secretly, I had my doubts.... By 4 p.m., we were all aboard our transport- the “Custodian”.
March 16
Our first day aboard the Transport. Cannot say I am much impressed with the beauty of the surroundings. The portion of the ship set apart for the use of the troops is that below the Main Deck, and is known as “tween decks”; - a dark hole and small enough too, I think, for 650 men. Immediately overhead are the 600 head of horses, -restless, frightened, and pawing the deck incessantly. But we are going out on Active Service, and what matters a little discomfort. Any man who objects to it, should be at home with his mother. Crowds of visitors thronged the decks all day, saying “Good life” to their loved ones, and many were the humorously-pathetic scenes enacted. Some lucky fellows had two, and even three “fair ones” weeping on their necks. Since I had none, I had more time to notice others, -poor sport perhaps, but it served to pass away the time. One mans wife, and mother-in-law came aboard about mid-day. Their grief at Jack’s departure was so great that they were forced to “drown their sorrow” in the whisky they had thoughtfully brought along with them. This remedy seemed to have the desired effect, as they departed, laughing, as tho’ the whole thing was a huge joke.
March 17
Up went the anchor at 6 a.m. this morning. Rattle, rattle! creak, creak!!! and at last our floating barrack-room is moving. As we rolled out between the towering “Heads” in the glimmer of the Early morning sun, even the most reckless and light hearted of us could not help wondering when we would see the pretty bays and sparkling waters of Port Jackson again. There are surely some, -perhaps many- amongst us, who will never see them again; let them then, take a last long farewell of their native land, while it is still in sight. Ah! We don’t know who will have the misfortune to be left behind in the new land we are so anxious to see, and it may be as well for our “peace of mind” that it is so. It is well that we are not allowed to look too closely into our Futures- (many of them, I notice are looking very intently over the side of the vessel, just at present.) Perhaps they are reading their futures in those writhing foam-flecked waters down there below; if so, those futures must be gloomy indeed, as the expression on these men’s faces is by no means a happy, nor yet a contented one.
March 18
Calm and clear. The sea is wonderfully smooth this morning. I have rarely seen it so calm. The daily routine on board is as follows: - Reveille 6 a.m.; Horses to be straightaway attended to, groomed, watered and fed; their stalls thoroughly cleaned out, and sprinkled with a disinfectant. These stalls are –by-the-way eight feet long, and four wide, -small enough you might think, but purposely so, to prevent “falling about” in a heavy sea. They cannot lie down -which must be pretty hard on the legs; Lying down for a horse, aboard ship, is detrimental to future equine happiness. “Stables” finished, the men have breakfast. Then there is generally a “Morning Parade”, -presumably to see if anyone ran away during the night. Mid-day “Stables” begin at 11 a.m. -watering and feeding only- Dinner for the troops 1 p.m. Evening Stables same as Morning 4 p.m. to 5.30. Tea 6 p.m. Bed 9 p.m. The interval between “tea” and bed-time is generally taken up trying to find your hammock and blankets.
March 19-22
We
are sailing round the Four
horses have died, and on a “post-mortem” being held, it was discovered that
each had a vast quantity of sand (swallowed with their forage at
March 23
Today, as our vessel steamed forward
We saw old Like a mountain of mist to the Norward, Then fade like a cloud in the sky. And some of us, light hearted rovers- Looked out with a laugh on the sea, And some, they thought of the lovers, Who waved them “Goodbye” from the “Quay”
How long before they would see that land and those lovers again? A question none of us can answer.
It may be for only a season, It maybe for a year and a day. And it may be forever and ever, That some are sailing away. But whether to richer or ruin; To Happiness, Grief, or Regret; There’s a land at the back of the “Leeuwin” That few of us will ever forget. (Will Ogilvie)
By noon
the last piece of land was vanishing in the distance, -
26-3-01
Fair
and calm. We are out in the Two instances of the severity of Military Discipline happened to day: - Extract from orders 25/3/01 (1)
Trooper (Makes one wonder how many days he’d have got had he refused to obey the order.) (2) Trooper Hickey was this day awarded 168 hours Imprisonment for sleeping whilst on stable picquet. These gentlemen don’t seem to realize yet that they are soldiers, and must obey the command of their superiors. They will probably “take a tumble” to it ere long. Our Commanding Officer is doing all in his power to gently remind them of the fact that they are not taking this trip for the good of their health.
27-3-01
The
days are so fine, and the nights so calm and pleasant, that the Management
have decided to get up a concert on the Main Deck this evening. The
attendance was good. All who couldn’t get away were present. The programme
was a lengthy one, - noticeably so, as the sitting accommodation was limited.
Judging by results singers don’t go soldiering; tho’ soldiers may sing; at
least, the musical portion of One
“Would–be-Newbury” wrestled manfully with the “ All things good and bad end, and, well, so did our Concert.
28-3-01
The most noteworthy event of today is perhaps, that, by coming five minutes late, I missed my dinner- not an unusual thing with others. In this ship, it is a decided case of “the Devil help the hindmost”. Meals are served on long, narrow mess tables, supposed to seat 20 men (Wolves, would be a more correct appellation). At meal times the atmosphere round these tables assumes quite a gorgeously purple hue and the very beams seem to shake with the vibrations of the language used. I am in charge of one “Mess” and justly pride myself on its respectability, but in the vicinity of even our magic circle, the “great Australian” adjective is very much “in evidence”. “Meal times” appear to be the time when everyone’s pugilistic instincts arise within him, and many are the interesting bouts of fisticuffs indulged in by these augmentative diners. The combatants generally return to find their “places” full, and their plates empty, - the sight of which does not seem to have a soothing effect on their ruffled feelings, and sometimes even results in a continuation of hostilities.
30-3-01
Muster Parade this morning, for the purpose of having the “Army Act” read out to the men. It is an interesting document but did not seem to be appreciated by those present. When one hears such passages as 1 “The penalty for sleeping, whilst a sentry on outpost duty is death”; and 2 “The penalty for stealing is not less than 5 years imprisonment”, it makes him resolve mentally to be very wakeful while on active service, and also to be thoroughly honest as long as he is under Military discipline. 3 p.m.- Hammock Inspection. To see that every man has only 2 Blankets, and 1 hammock. “Pinching” blankets is so prevalent among the troops, that these parades have become a necessity. On this occasion one gentleman of a luxurious turn of mind was found to have no less than five blankets. It is to be hoped that the sudden change to the “guard room” and 2 Blankets will not materially effect the said gentleman’s health.
31-3-01
“Kit Inspection” 9.30 a.m., for much the same reason that we had the Hammock ‘parade’ yesterday...
April-1
A nasty, miserable, wet day. How I hate such days on the sea... Devine Service 11 a.m. – a compulsory parade for all hands, excepting Roman Catholics – who have a separate service – and those of the Jewish denomination – who have none. (It is surprising how many profess to be Jews.)
2-4-01
Sports held on board today. The chief events were the “Tug of war”, Obstacle Race, and last but not least, the “Bun eating Contest”...The latter item of the programme attracted a very large number of competitors; - most of them being duly qualified in every way to engage in such a contest. Guessing at the weight of a live bullock was also indulged in. I guessed 699 lbs; someone said 302 lbs; others evidently thought they were guessing the weight of the ship’s cargo, using four figures in a free and easy manner, to record their guesses. The actual weight was 723 lbs, and the prize won by a youth who possibly had never seen a real live bullock before – unless he happened to be about the “Glebe” on “Bullock night-”.
5-4-01
“Good Friday”. Two hot + buns each for breakfast, - the butter, however is ‘non-est’. Devine Service 9.30 a.m. At noon Trooper J. Foreman died in It is not cheerful to see one’s fellow soldier lowered down into the cold great ocean, but we murmur a “Requiescat in pace” and on we go again.
6-4-01
We have been experiencing some very rough weather during the last few days. It is shaking the horses up a bit; Otherwise they look well, tho’ their legs are terribly swollen with standing so long. We are already beginning to look out for signs of land.
9-4-01
There was great joy and consternation this morning
when from “the mast” the word was passed, “Land
on our Starboard bow”. In the dim hazy distance one can discern faintly, the
outlines of the long-looked-for land; - the Already I have visions of “Rickshaws”, and
Zulus; diamond mines and “assegais”, pigmies with poisoned arrows; gleaming
yellow tigers; elephants pulling up trees for mere pastime, and great scaly
alligators placidly breakfasting off happy picnic parties on the banks of the
muddy and sluggish South African rivers.
11-4-01
Steamed into Beyond lies Capetown, with
12-4-01
Still in An early morning view of Capetown, and the country beyond, is worth coming a long way, to see. The wild aspect of the rugged inland mountains, forms a striking contrast to the pretty quite cottages of peaceful Capetown. Table Mountain as sometimes occurs at this time of year, is free from mist; thus we are favoured with a fine view of him. The entire height of the mountain is nearly 4000 feet, the first thousand feet being solid rock, the rest, reddish sandstone. The reservoir which supplies the town with water, is situated on the top of the mountain, and is kept going, we are told, by rain and mist alone.
13-4-01
Left Capetown 10 a.m. this morning for
14-4-01
At sea. This being considered an exceptionally treacherous coast, the skipper deems it advisable to stand well out from shore. There is a tremendous ‘land swell’ and a choppy sea; causing the old barge to heel and toss and rock and roll in the same old way -only worse. Devine Service 11 a.m. ... Another horse
died about noon making a total since leaving
15-4-01
Arrived in
16-4-01
Unloading cargo, and horses. This is done by means of slings and winches – and niggers - presumably to add to the noise and confusion. - The sling, -a wide band- is placed securely round the horse’s middle. He is then lifted, by means of the steam winch- bodily from his stall, swung over the vessel’s side, and lowered (not too gently) into a large punt waiting below to receive them. The waters of the bay are not sufficiently deep to admit of large boats getting up to the wharf, hence all this fuss and delay.
17-4-01
Troops disembark 11 a.m. After being “cooped up” for 32 days on the “Custodian”,
our feelings can be imagined. On landing, we were marched regimentally, with
all our accoutrements (i.e. rifles, bandoliers, great-coat, haversack,
bayonet, and blanket) straight up to the “Barracks”, where the ladies (white)
of Our first meal on shore! How we all enjoyed it. The ladies were very nice, and most attentive. I shall always remember them with gratitude, and think we all showed fully, our appreciation of their goodness, and above all- a keen appreciation of their culinary capabilities. Pt. Elizabeth is a place of no small importance, and possesses some very fine public buildings, especially the “Museum”, wherein we saw a most marvellous collection of S.African wild animals. We were delighted, but we were not left long to enjoy such things for at 4 p.m. we entrained at the Port Elizabeth Railway Station, bound at last for “the Front”. The “carriages” attached, are merely large open trucks. Thirty or forty men are rammed into these luxurious compartments. Seated on their “swags” with legs stretched out across the ‘carriage’, they settle down and try to make themselves comfortable, for there’s a long, long, journey ahead.
18-4-01
Most of us were awake early, watching the day break among the great brown desolate looking mountains of North Eastern Cape Colony. About 6 a.m. we reached Cookhouse. Here we stopped for over an hour; watered and fed the horses, and had our breakfast. A few miles beyond Cookhouse, and near Here, years ago, five South Africans were hanged by Lord Charles Somerset for having taken part in a Boer rising. Their wives, it is said, were compelled to stand by and witness the tragedy. We reached Cradock about noon- had lunch and away again. After passing “Cypress Grove” we proceeded very cautiously, as a party of Boers 500 strong- were seen crossing the line a few hours ago, and the line has been blown up in several places ahead.
19-4-01
Reached Naauwpoort Junction 5 a.m. There are 4000 British troops here awaiting transport. The line, 12 miles ahead has been blown up, and there is a congestion of traffic. We are not to be detained long, as our train will be the first to move off. Four of our men have been sent to the local hospital, with fever. Reached Colesburg about midnight. It was
here, when Lord Roberts was marching on
21-4-01
Reached Norval’s Pont 5 a.m. Watered, fed, and exercised horses. Left again 6.30. Crossed the There is a marked improvement in the country up here. The veldt is level and far-stretching, and to all appearances, well grassed. For miles the bleaching bones of horses can be seen on either side of the line, marking the march of General French to Kimberly. Of course the General had much to contend with, but it is on record that his ability as a leader of Cavalry, quite outweighs his reputation as a horse master. Passed Edenburg 1.30; Bethany 2.30,
reaching Here we stayed for the night. Bought some bread and sardines at the canteen. We are beginning to look upon these articles as luxuries. It is not a large place, but it is prettily situated, and strikes one as being a pretty town. The name means in English, the Fountain of Flowers. I do not notice many flowers about though. Quite a consternation was caused when one of our party came back from a reconnaissance of the town, and informed us that there were some “real Boers in the barbed wire enclosure down there”. Away we went, helter skelter, to see the wild men of our imagination (our loquacious informant had told us that they were prisoners, and were under a strong guard). Well we feasted our eyes on them as though they were wild animals, and I must confess that we were not a little surprised -and disappointed- to find them so like other Europeans -or even our own Australian backwoodsmen. Pretty tough looking chaps, tall and bony; 19 out of 20 with beards, which by the way look as though they have not had a comb about them for some considerable time. Men out here, we are told, depend on bullets and circumstances- to comb their beards.
22-4-01
Left Reached Kroonstadt 5 p.m. This place has a very strong garrison round it at present; it also boasts a very large Hospital, -also a very large death rate - chiefly victims of Enteric fever. It is said to be a very unhealthy place.
23-4-01
Left Kroonstadt 5 a.m. Passed Waterval 8.30. A big Engagement was recently fought here, a fight which lasted for 13 hours. A wrecked train and a large number of graves mark the spot. A few miles further on we passed General De Wet’s farm. The homestead looks ruined and deserted. There are many instances of that gentleman’s handiwork hereabouts; - broken bridges, blown up railway line and wrecked carriages. Only yesterday a train was wrecked here by a party of Boers, who, after helping themselves to provisions and loot, hurriedly decamped. Reach Viljoen’s Drift -on the border
of the (I nearly lost the train in getting the above information, and forming the above opinions). Possibly my ½ mile sprint has influenced those opinions slightly. 2 p.m.
Crossed the Reached Elandsfontein 6.15 p.m. We stay here until morning, - it being deemed unsafe to travel at night.
24-4-01
Left Elandsfontein 6 a.m., reached
There are many Australian trees round the houses; pines, gum and wattle. These all grow remarkable well. Passed Frederickstadt 2 p.m., and reached Klerksdorp -our destination as far as the train is concerned- 6 p.m. We detrained, and camped near the town.
25-4-01
Shifted camp, a mile West of
Klerksdorp. The town though small, is prettily situated. At the back is a
large Refugee Camp, containing over 4000 Dutch, principally women and
children. This district seems to be the base of operations in the
May-4-01
We start on trek tomorrow, after having had eight days in camp. During that time we have been pretty busy. There were horses to be shod, clothes and blankets to be issued to the men; “Outposts” to find (to do sentry duty round the camp each night); rifle practices; transport waggons to be got ready and a hundred and one little things to fix up, so that the time has passed quickly enough. This morning we went out on a
‘patrol’ to a farm-house about 7 miles Colonel E. C. Williams takes command of our Column tonight. This gentleman has a good reputation as a “fighting man”, and is spoken of as a promising, and capable Officer.
5-5-01
By 11 a.m. our Column was ready to start on the “warpath”. Our mounted section numbered 630, besides which we had a detachment (-about 300 of the Coldstream Guards Infantry) attached to us. – Speaking of our regiment - Every man had his horse, rifle and 2 bandoliers- the latter containing each 50 rounds of ammunition, besides which we carried 50 additional rounds in the wallets of our saddles. These ‘wallets’, -by the way- are a sort of general receptacle for everything -a kind of lucky bag- cartridges, lunch, change of socks, soap and towel, anything at all, excepting your rifle. We started in the following order: - The “Scouts” first; 200 yards behind them the Advance Guard – comprised on this occasion of one squadron. –Then came the Transport waggons, 60 in number – laden with supplies, forage, blankets etc. Detachments of men are then sent out to the Left and Right Flanks, to act as Flank Guard. These in clear, open country, such as this is, go out to a distance of about 1000 yards from the convoy, and ride in “files” – or pairs -, there being an interval of about 100 yards between files. This “interval”, of course can be decreased or increased, according to the number of men available, or the formation of the country; or the position and attitude of the enemy. The “Rear Guard” follows on at a distance of 1000 yards back leaving a “screen” (composed generally of four men) to follow on 200 yards in the rear of them, so as to prevent surprise from that quarter. Infantry, as a rule, march with the Convoy, and form a sort of body guard to it. (Ours will not be taken easily, with such men as the “Coldstream Guards” round it.) The waggons are drawn by spans of 10 mules each (fine, wiry little brutes) and driven by two Kaffir “boys”. I say two, because one handles the reins and drives, while the other (the driver’s subordinate) sits on the box frantically slashing a long whip and uttering most uncouth noises, thereby urging his long-eared team into a long, loping trot. About 4 p.m. the natives [sic] scouts came tearing back with eyes staring out of their heads “Der Boeren, der Boeren”! and pointing excitedly to a big kopje a mile ahead. “C” Squadron (our’s) was ordered to advance, and when within [a] 1000 yards of the hill, we heard the report of several rifles, and saw little puffs of grey smoke rise up from the boulders ahead; almost simultaneously puffs of dust might be seen rising a little distance in front of us. We were actually under fire, but did not realize it quite. Those little puffs of dust could not hurt one. Oh No! Our General (an old Campaigner) -seeing the kopje in front was held by Boers, had the guns up in a flash and our “Maxim” was soon rattling off her 250 rounds per minute. The Boers, -a small Commando only-, were seen to move stealthily away, and mounting their horses were soon lost to view. We camped for the night at 7 p.m. A strong “Outpost” was put out at once, as Boers are known to be in the vicinity. The “Outposts” (each ‘post’ comprised of 3 men and a non-commissioned officer) are stationed so that they may see the posts on either side, and together they form a circle round the camp. The whole line of outposts is under the supervision of a “field officer”, whose duty it is to go the rounds two or three times during the night, in order to see that the sentries are all alert. The duty of a sentry, is to allow no one to enter, or even to go out of camp without giving the prearranged “countersign”. On seeing anyone approach, the sentry, after allowing them to come within reasonable distance, challenges loudly. “Halt! Who goes there”? On receiving the answer- “Friends” he again says, “Stand friends, Advance one and give the countersign”. He then allows the person to approach until within ten paces, or less, again halts him and asks him to give the countersign. On receiving it he says “Pass friends all’s well!!” If he does not receive it, well, complications are likely to arise, and somebody is liable to get hurt. All “turn in” tonight fully dressed with rifles and ammunition near at hand. It is novel, but we though we would just like to have our boots off; that luxury is not to be thought of, however. One of the strictest rules pertaining to soldiers on active service, being that “he shall not remove his boots, unless permitted by the Commanding Officer”. This is a necessary precaution to take for in event of a night attack, dragging on tight boots would entail a considerable loss of time, and cause confusion, and might even end fatally. It certainly saves time (and trouble) of a morning, as all one has to do is to shake off a blanket and his toilet is complete.
6-5-01
Reveille 4.30 a.m. Had a hurried breakfast, packed up, and started by 6 a.m. About 8 o’clock Boers opened fire on our Rear Guard, but from a very long range. Our “pompom” silenced their rifles. At 11 we marched into the town of
This town, magnificently situated as it is for warlike purpose, has for some time past, formed one of Dela-rey’s [De La Rey’s] main strongholds. The General decided to burn the
town. This, after removing the people- some four or five hundred, was
done. The big It was a sorry enough looking spectacle, but one I believe, not uncommon in warfare, and is, in a degree, indispensable with Guerilla warfare.
7-5-01
Reveille 6 a.m. The Dutch people, whom we got from the town yesterday, with all their belongings, were sent under strong escort, back to the Concentration Camp at Klerksdorp. They seem to take this rather unceremonious manner of shifting very well indeed. Perhaps they are not given to emotions. We all feel sorry for them, and it must be said to the soldier’s credit, that they are treated with respect. Some of the girls are quite pretty. They all- without exception, wear sun bonnets (pink and blue and white according to their complexions), and dress not so many years behind the times. Some of the older dames are inclined towards bitterness, but one cannot reasonably expect them to “beam on us”, under the existing circumstances. Would our women, think you, smile pleasantly in the bearded face of the Boer, who carried them away from their homes and all they loved? Many of these people speak English. We got a fine mob of sheep about the town, also a good many goats, and pumpkins and quinces galore, also fowls in abundance. My word! we say at supper time, “campaigning seems all right”.
8-5-01
Reveille 3 a.m. and a fine white frost too- a frost that would do credit to Katoomba. It seems absurd moving about at this hour of morning. Left camp 4.30 passing through the burnt town before dawn. General Babington (with whom are the Imperial Bushmen) is working on our right. This seems to be a most fertile district, and one especially adapted for fruit growing and maize. We have passed some splendid crops of mealies (maize) and these too, have grown with scarcely any attention at all. The veldt is thickly clothed with grass, now nearly dry. Our Column camped at 4 p.m. We have no tents to pitch (such things being considered by Lord Kitchener, merely as encumbrances) so we picket and feed our horses and turn our attention towards preparing a supper. Our daily ration is 1 pound Biscuit per man, 1 lb of meat; ¼ oz of tea; ¼ oz coffee; and 3 oz sugar, also 4 oz jam per man.
9-5-01
Reveille 4.45 a.m. The ground was hard and stony last night, and we don’t consider that hour too early to turn out. We used to wonder why veldt was pronounced “felt”- now we know. It is felt! Marched 6.15 in a westerly direction. I was on the extreme left of the Flank Guard, and seeing some fowls running about a farm house ½ a mile or so away, I wandered down. Some of our men seeing me bobbing about the house, not unnaturally mistook me for a Boer, and commenced testing their marksmanship. It was with great difficulty that I convinced them of the fact, that I was no Boer, but I made a mental resolution never to get so far outside the Flank again. Column camped 4 p.m. near Commandant Vermose’s house. (The Commandant was not at home, but Madame V- and two pretty frauliens [sic] were living here. It is a splendid house, richly and beautifully furnished. From information received the General deems it advisable to double the outposts tonight; -probably expecting a night attack.
10-5-01
Left camp 6 a.m. There was no attack during the night. The sentinels however, fired a few shots, and declare that the Boers were lurking round. Not a sign of them this morning. Our Squadron formed the Advance Guard. About 9 a.m. Boers were seen, - in small numbers only- on the skyline ahead. Being inexperienced and headstrong, and eager for fight, of course we raced out in pursuit. (We had no orders not to do so.) We never thought of what might be behind the ridges; how could we tell, the innocent-looking mimosa scrub, 800 yards on our left front, concealed several hundred bearded Dutchmen. We were new to the game; besides we were Australian and were going to sweep all before us in this new land. When we reached the summit of the ridge, our hidden foe opened fire on us. Lord! how their rifles rattled. Quickly dismounting and taking what cover we could find, (anthills for preference) we replied right merrily, and then began a cheerful duel “Lee-Enfield versus Mauser”. The distinct double report of the Boer rifle, and the peculiar “whing” of the little pellets of lead whistling overhead was novel and interesting at first, but grew tiresome as the day wore on. Thicker and thicker came the Boer
bullets, whistling past our ears and “zip zipping” in the dust
unpleasantly close. Now for a confession of how I felt personally; I did
not feel afraid, but I remember vaguely wondering how long it would be
before I was hit. It seemed to me that I was the finest target on the
whole fields. Others had the same views regarding their conspicuity, I
have since heard. All went well, until poor Barker, of our troop, stood up
to shift position, and immediately fell with a bullet through his chest.
Trooper W.S. Snowdon- who was nearest him at the time, removed him- with
great risk to himself- to a place of safety, and I think Shortly after Lieutenant Lamb was killed, and a few others wounded close by. Two great lean, and hungry-looking vultures hovered over my head, awaiting developments, but they were destined to dis-appointment as far as I was concerned. The booming of cannon at the back, and rattle of musketry on all sides told us that the engagement was general. One whole troop of our men, -16 in all- had been “cut off” on the Right Flank, and captured. We had so far held our places manfully, and by Noon the Boers showed signs of leaving their position. This they did about 1 p.m. By 4 p.m. the firing had ceased and we trooped into camp, tired and hungry after our first engagement. Thus ended Kooranafontein. We had received our first real baptism of fire, and had paid dearly enough for it; six killed, and about the same number wounded -including Major Mc Lean- several horses shot and 16 men captured. The captured men, including an officer, Lieut C ---- have returned to camp, wearing - - a worried look- and minus nearly everything else. Of course we are glad to see them back (even “in puris naturalibus”) and their appearance caused quite a diversion in camp. The ‘ambulance’ has brought the dead and wounded in, with the exception Trooper Barker, whom we buried this morning out on the field. He was the first of our men to fall on the field of action and may his sleep be a sound one.
11-5-01
This morning we buried poor Mr Lamb and the other brave fellows –sorry enough to lose such good men, so soon. These men have fought and fallen, and now have gone, where we all must go, soon or late. Though a lonely resting place, theirs is a grave of honor, [sic] and may they rest in peace. We remain in camp today, resting our hoses and ourselves.
12-5-01
Column left Kooranafontein Camp 6a.m. travelling in a Southerly direction, burning a few farms and Kaffirs huts en route. Though a sharp look out was kept, we have seen no sign of Boers today. Halted, and formed camp at Vlakfontein 3 p.m. 4p.m. My friend and myself have just had the luck to “pick up” a brace of chickens and a few pigeons at a deserted Boer house, so we anticipate a good tea. Fossicking about the garden we discovered a place where the earth had been recently dug out. Imagine our delight on rooting out a tin box, containing - nothing in particular, a few crumpled receipts, and some scraps of old lace.
13-5-01
Reveille 2.30. Left camp 4 a.m., on our return to Klerksdorp. We passed hundreds of acres of maize. Saw a few Boers on the skyline. Outspanned 2 miles South of Hartebeesfontein 3 p.m.
14-5-01
Left camp 6 a.m. reaching the now abandoned Klerksdorp Gold mines early in the afternoon. The machinery here is all up-to-date, and must have cost many thousands of pounds. It seems a pity to see it rusting in idleness.
15-5-01
Reached Klerksdorp at noon. (Every night for the past week, there has been a beautiful meteor in the West. It is faint to night, and appears to be gradually dying away.
16-5-01
Remained in camp -Australian Mail arrived – the first since we landed. Was pleased to get some home letters.
17-5-01
In camp. Have been made Assistant Qt. Mr. and have the Squadron books to keep, the Daily Dairy, Pay Lists etc.
20-5-01
Left Klerksdorp 6 a.m. moving S. West. A bit of sniping took place this morning on the Left Flank. Later on we captured a fine herd of cattle – about 300 – also 2 waggons. Outspanned 3 p.m. at Klip plaats Drift.
21-5-01
Reveille 5 a.m. Left camp 6.15, still travelling S. W. Made big hauls in the poultry and pig line en route. Three Boers wearing khaki uniform and Australian hats (presumably in commemoration of Kooranafontein) came up to two of Major Carrington’s Bushmen this afternoon, and, after asking them how long they’d been on trek etc, asked them, in a casual sort of way to let them have a look at their rifles, (just to see were they the same as used by themselves, like, you know) The guileless “men from the mulga”, thinking they were talking to some of the I. Bs, at once complied with this modest request. Needless to say, the wily Boers forgot to return the weapons, to their now wide-awake owners. I have made a note of this, just by way of showing that one cannot be too careful out here. The average Boer, especially if he can speak English, might easily be taken for an Australian.
23-5-01
Column left camp 7 a.m. trekking in a Southerly direction over rough rocky country. Engaged the enemy (number unknown) for a while this afternoon. They retreated taking up a position on a kopje four miles distant. Our “Elswick” guns shelled them off this, doing some excellent shooting at a range of over 7000 yards. These “Elswicks” are magnificent pieces of artillery, and in the hands of the 78th- Gunners are things to be avoided – so the Boers seem to have thought. Camped at Witpoort 4 p.m.
24-5-01
We celebrated Queens Birthday in the
following pleasant and profitable manner. Leaving Witpoort 6 a.m. we
reached the For this we have to thank an
Australian lady –a Mrs King formerly of Bourke – and for some years a
resident of the Column camped at Cypherhac 5 p.m. At
the “ To shield themselves from our fire, they put their waggons- many of them containing women and children – in the line of fire. Thus, a child of eight or nine received a nasty flesh wound from one of our bullets. One cannot judge the standard of Boer manliness and courage by a few actions of this description, which fortunately, are as rare as they are despicable.
26-5-01
Column remained in camp until 6 p.m. when the order was given to get ready for a night march. We were all excited, but said little, as becomes a soldier. At 7 we started, the Bushmen only, being left behind with the Coldstreams to guard the camp. Crossing the
27-5-01
Just at dawn we moved on again. We saw the glorious morning break over the quiet veldt, but nothing else. Still we went on, and on until mid-day, when we halted at Zand Spruit for dinner. I found some “biltong” (strips of venison dried in the sun) in a house there, and partook lightly of it. I think the Boer deserves great credit for being able to live on it; -he must be wonderfully organised – 1.30 started on homeward march, picking up as we went 3 waggons with spans of oxen in them. (The oxen, had presumably, yoked themselves up – as no human being was in sight-). Reached camp 8 p.m. 25 hours, with only one meal, and nothing to show for it all, but the three waggons, and their highly educated teams. We suppose it’s all experience.
28-30-5-01
Trekking up the “ ‘ It is said that the Boer paid very little attention to scientific farming, content to watch operations from his “Stoep”.
31-5-01
Reached Klerksdorp 4 p.m. The Imperial Bushmen left here, for
We are to get 50 remounts from the Depôt here. The horses are not given a fair chance, - taken out too soon after landing here, consequently many of our good horses have died, or gone lame. The allowance of oats (12 lbs per day) does not seem sufficient for horses doing hard work. Even when they have time to graze, - being unaccustomed to the grass – they derive little benefit from it, in fact, it seems to rather disagree with them. I am sure it will pay us to take every care of our good old ‘Walers’, until they are acclimatised, as I don’t see any better knocking about.
June-1-01
Left Klerksdorp 8 a.m. When passing through the town, two of us broke off to a Restaurant, kept by a loyal (?) Dutchwoman and her daughter. Here we indulged in the luxury of a cup of tea and a cake. This we enjoyed; but imagine our surprise on being presented with a ticket for 3/- each, for this little luxury. This evidently is not run by Quong Tart, or the ‘A B C’. But everything is dear out here. I noticed oranges in the windows marked 6/- per dozen; eggs 5/6 and so on. These people mean to make the most of the war while it lasts. Column camped 12 miles N. of Klerksdorp.
2-6-01
Reveille 5 a.m. Marched 6.15. The coldest day I have yet felt out here. As a rule the nights are cold and frosty, but the days are glorious, -keen in the early morning, and about sunset, and warm, -even hot- during the greater part of the day.
June-3-01
Reached the little town of Ventersdorp 3 p.m. It is a pretty place. Everything about, trees, lucerne, barley, vegetables and grass, - is of a vivid green, a striking example of what can be done by means of irrigation. Water is running everywhere. The Boer seems to have been a master of irrigation; Perhaps it is that he so often had such abundance of water to work with, and gently sloping ground to run it over; Be that as it may; certain it is that very many of the farms we have visited give evidence of the advantages to be derived from judicious irrigation.
June-4-01
Reveille 1.30 a.m. Left camp in the moonlight soon after. Marched till 8 in a North Easterly direction - outspanned and had breakfast. A ride of five or six hours, gives one an appetite for breakfast these sharp mornings. Inspanned at 12, travelled until 5, when the Column camped for the night.
5-6-01
Left camp 7 a.m. travelling over recently burned country till 3 p.m. We arrived in camp more like Kaffirs than anything else, and the worst of it is that there is not sufficient water about to wash ourselves with; it is with difficulty that we can get enough to make tea with. These veldt fires are quite a revelation to us, - they are so fierce and wide-spreading. At night, you can see a ring of fire for ten, aye, even 20 miles. The grass being long, and at this time of year – very dry, burns at night, almost as fiercely as it does during the day-time.
6-6-01
Convoy moved on to Quaggafontein, ten
miles distant. The mounted troops took a circle round. Some Boers were met
with. A skirmish took place between them and our Right Flank and Rear
Guards. No damage done on either side, - the firing being mostly done from
a long range. We came into camp 3 p.m. Lord
7-6-01
At 9 a.m. we passed “Vlakfontein”, where last week General Dixon’s Camp was attacked by Kemp and his men. The graves of ten British Officers and over forty men, mark the spot. General Dixon has just returned to camp, and had been followed at a distance, - unknown to himself, by a large number of Boers. These as they approached the camp, to screen themselves, lit the grass, which being dry burned furiously and towards the camp. The English General, blamed some careless smoker for having dropped a match but did not take much notice. Veldt fires are so frequent. – The sun had set, and the twilight was deepening into dusk. The fire, by this time, was within 600 yards of the camp, burning furiously, and the Boers, completely obscured by the dense smoke, were but a short distance behind. A few hundred yards is not far for well-mounted horsemen, and may be covered in a very short space of time. At a given signal, the main body of Boers (1000 strong) rushed forwards, and swept down on the camp. Imagine the confusion. The conflict was hand to hand; rifle-butts were freely used, in lieu of sword; the gunners, - who were standing to their guns, were nearly all massacred on the spot. The result might have been far more disastrous, but for the free manner in which the gallant Derbyshires got to work with their bayonets. Their determined onslaughts broke the Boers up and forced them to abandon their design on the camp. The loss of life is greatly to be regretted. Passing Vlakfontein, we travelled over some very rough country, reaching Courtfontein 5 p.m. We are now in what is known as the
June 8
Convoy remained in camp, but Mounted Troops went over the valley to Waterval, where we had an encounter with the enemy. After a running fight lasting for about an hour (running, on the part of the Boers) we succeeded in annexing about a dozen ox-waggons, and a few prisoners. It was dark when we got back to camp.
June 9
We were to have made a 20 mile trek
today, to reach Rietfontein; but owing to a very difficult crossing in the
June 10
Travelled the remaining 15 miles to Rietfontein in good style, reaching that place at noon. We are now in the “bush veldt” (or timbered country). It is a pleasant change after the hundreds of miles we have been over without a vestige of timber. The camp we are now in, is, I think, the prettiest we have yet seen. Beautiful green flats, and such a variety of strange, pretty trees.
June-11
Mounted Column went out 6 a.m. on a farm-clearing expedition. The British have lost a lot of men round here recently; - the country is very mountainous, and forms a fine harbour for the enemy. Our orders were to remove – in vans, taken for that purpose – all the Dutch families in the neighbourhood – not pleasant work. Returned to camp 4 p.m. with over 200 woman and children. These will be sent to the nearest Concentration Camp which is Rustenburg.
June 12
Rumoured that the Column would not move to-day. Down went our dirty clothes to the creek to be washed, but, alas; at 9 a.m. we got the order to march again, at 10. This is not an unusual occurrence. We reached “Eland’s River” 6 p.m. What thoughts pass through one’s mind as he casts his eye over the broken ground, and hastily-dug trenches all round, the heaps of empty cartridges; the bleaching bones of Australian horses, and graves of Australian men. It was here last August that our “Bushmen” made their gallant stand, - hemmed in for 12 days by Delarey, with 3000 men and 8 guns. Our men numbered barely 500, and little enough cover they had, for the kopje they held, rises out in the centre of a plain, surrounded by great hills from which points of vantage the Boers worked their guns with advantage to themselves, and disastrous results to the ‘Bushmen’. The only artillery our men had was a “muzzle-loader” and a “Maxim”. The Maxim jammed, and they were left to boom away with the old 7 pounder. Night fell, and under cover of darkness our men dug trenches (regular works of military art). These trenches proved a blessing, and enabled the brave fellows to hold out against the withering fire of the Boer guns. The horses had no such shelter, and were shot down line after line, squadron after squadron, only nine, out of those 500 horses were left alive to tell the tale to their equine brethren. At dawn on the morning of the
13th day, great masses of men -the troops
of The weary defenders sent up a mighty cheer, for they knew that now their work was done. The Boers were already retiring on all sides, not caring to wait to receive the relieving Columns. So ended the Gallant Defence of Elands River.
June-13
Left camp 6 a.m. this morning and after a short ‘trek’ outspanned at a pretty spot known as Leufontein. This afternoon, our “Cossack Post” was firing volley after volley at what they took to be Boers on the skyline. On glasses being brought into use however, our Colonel soon made the ‘supposed’ Boers out to be General Featherstonhaugh and his staff, coming from Colonel Hickey’s Camp to ours. Fortunately the “Posts” marksmanship was not equal to there vigilance on this occasion.
June-14
Reached Kostafontein at noon. 1.30 Troops went across to Rudival, in conjunction with Col. Hickey’s men. A little skirmishing took place early in the afternoon, but no captures were made. Returned to camp 6 p.m. Rations seem to be giving out. Instead of the usual 5 biscuits per man, we are only getting 3 each to-night, and all other rations cut down more or less.
June 15
Went through the beautiful and historical
These picturesque places are hard, very hard, on the transport mules. These wiry little beasts, get only 8 lbs of oats per day, and very often have to do long and tedious journeys. One labor [sic] saving device I notice among the Kaffir drivers of Transport Waggons, is that of tying five mules together, and turning them out thus to graze. Mules tied up in knots of five, are more easily caught, than five individual mules; with heels always in the place where their heads ought to be. But the system is a bad one, and the ill effects are visible in the emaciated condition of the little animals. I think, the Kaffir should have the folly of his ways gently pointed out to him –he is too philosophic to notice these things for himself. Column camped at Leufontein 4 p.m. On ½ rations to night. What ho!
June-16
Left camp at 7.15 a.m. At noon, passed Colonel Allenby’s Column –comprised of “Dragoon Guards” and Inniskillings- and supposed to be a “crack” column. They have come from the Middelburg district where they have been doing some good work. We reached Quaggafontein 5 p.m.
June-17
Left camp 6.30. Trekked till 11.30- over burnt ground; Outspanned till 1.30. on again, reaching Klip-plaats 5.30 p.m. A “Tommy” (English) to-day bought a horse, saddle, and bridle from a Kaffir, for which he gave the sum of 3d, - and I believe, paid cash down. His own horse, - he explained to us, - was “fed up”. A casual glance at its phantom-like form, would not give one that impression- rather the reverse. This plucky horse buyer, would be rather an acquisition to our “Camperdown” Yards.
June-18
Column moved off camp 6.30 a.m. towards Krugersdorp. Fine sharp frost last night. Ice on several lagoons passed early this morning. Later on, we passed some thriving wattle, and gum-tree plantations. It would be a vast improvement to this country if all the farms adopted this system of tree-planting. The Australian trees seem to do remarkably well out here. Reached Krugersdorp 4 p.m. We are to stay here for a few days, getting in ‘supplies’, having waggons repaired and horses shod etc. It is rather a fine town to look at.
June-19
Rifle Inspection 9 a.m., after which 20 men per squadron were allowed to go into town to buy little luxuries for themselves –such as clean shirts, soap, and tobacco. Major Antill, who has been in command of our “Left Wing” for some time, is leaving us here. We are sorry indeed to lose so good a soldier.
June 20
Mounted Column went out about noon in a northerly direction. When eight miles out a party of Boers were sighted about 600 yards distant. We at once opened fire on them with “pom-pom”, “maxim” and rifle. After half an hour’s sharp firing, the enemy retreated. Their Casualty List must have been a heavy one, for they were very much exposed to our fire. Lieut Brekenridge, of our Regiment was wounded in the knee, this being the only casualty on our side.
June 21 Six of our men sent to Hospital with enteric fever. It is taking a lot of good men away from us -some will never rejoin us again.
June-24
Left Krugersdorp 10 a.m., travelling in a southerly direction till 4 p.m. Don’t know the name of this camp, but it is a very pleasant one; plenty wood and water close by.
June-25
Reveille 5 a.m. Camped at Holfontein 5 p.m. About 9 o’clock an accident occurred by which Corporal Mc Namara -of the “Bushmen”, lost his life. He had walked out beyond the line of ‘Outposts’. One of the sentries on duty, mistaking him for a Boer, fired at him. The bullet passed through his head death being instantaneous. This is the first accident of this kind we have yet had, though several have been narrowly averted.
June 26
A long, weary, dirty march over rough, and burned country. Reached Mooi River 5 p.m. “Mooi” means “Pretty” and as the name would imply, it is a very clear, rapid flowing, and pretty stream. After our warm dusty march, I can assure you, we lost no time in availing ourselves of this opportunity for a fine bathe.
June 27
At 3 p.m. our Squadron was ordered to escort supply waggons into Wolverdin a railway station, eight miles distant -presumably for the purpose of bringing out supplies.
June 28
Returned from Wolverdin with
supplies 9 a.m. Column left All hands ordered to sleep with rifles loaded, and fixed bayonets to-night. Tra la!!
June-29
Reveille 6 a.m. Left camp noon.
Travelled in a
June 30
About 9 a.m. this morning as we were nearing “Rudival” our ‘advance’ was fired on by a strong party of Boers, holding a position on a line of kopjes 800 yards in front. For some time they gave our men rather a hot time, - wounding several. They had the advantage of excellent cover, and as is so often the case when Boers are holding a position, not a man was to be seen. Our guns were brought forward, and began belching forth their fiery messages. “C” Squadron was on the Right Flank, far detached from the Main Body. The gunners of the 78th – mistaking us for Boers, turned a 15 pounder on to us. Cr-r-r-r bang! came the great shell screaming through the air, then burst with a loud report in our midst. Then another, and yet another. For the second time in two months, we were under fire of our own guns. If they keep up this average right through, it will be lively. We lost no time in letting them know of their mistake. This was done by means of violent signalling and liberal use of our pocket handkerchiefs. **** Meanwhile the other squadrons had been giving the enemy a bad time with “pom pom”, shells and shrapnel. Little clouds of white smoke hovering above the kopje showed where the shells were bursting. It was a fine sight, and a rare object lesson on the use and effect of the “time fuse”. About 1 p.m. the Boers seemed to
have had enough of it, and gradually retreated into the Mountains. By 2,
they had all gone, leaving behind half a dozen dead, and about the same
number wounded. We had also captured 25 prisoners. Amongst the latter was
an Irishman, by the name of Patrick O’Brien, born in He told us that during the two years he had been fighting for the Boers, they had never, to his knowledge, made any payment to the men, promising always, a generous “settling up” at the end of the war. This they expected would be soon, for our Irish friend informed us, it was the firm belief amongst the Boers that England was about played out financially, and could not carry on the war beyond Christmas.... We camped down in the valley about dusk.
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