Antiquarian Auctions

Auction #114 begins on 11 Apr 2024

Anglo-Boer War:

GROUP OF DOCUMENTS RELATING TO THE LOYALTY OF LOCAL INHABITANTS, EASTERN CAPE, OCTOBER 1899.

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Autograph Manuscript signed (indistinctly) from Baviaans Kloof, P.O.Studtis, Willowmore, dated October 25th, 1899 giving a first-hand account of a meeting with an 'Africander' farmer and his account of the attempt to recruit him to the Boer cause in the north-eastern Cape.

2 pages, foolscap (330 x 205 mm), on lined note paper.
The writer (Mr. S.) reports how he was joined on a train about to depart from Uitenhage for Graaf Reinet by Jan Theodorus Ferreira, a farmer who he had known for some time. The latter was in an excited state the reason for which he relates to the writer. He had been approached by a 'foreigner' who wished to recruit him to the Free State cause and arm him in readiness to rise up and join the 'Africa for the Africanders' movement. The farmer, although of 'Dutch' origin himself, was not keen and had attempted to leave Uitenhage the previous evening. 'Oh, Mr. S, if you only knew what the Dutch people intend to do here I am sure you would be wishing to run away just as I do!' The writer ends by hoping that his name will not be disclosed in connection with this matter.

Together with a group of five official typed file copies of telegrams from or to Government offices in Cape Town:

1. From Field Cornet at Barkly East to Prime Minister, Cape Town, dated 22.11.99, informing him that he has armed the people with Government ammunition as the Magistrate has left.1 page.
2. From the Prime Minister to Field Cornet Potgieter at Barkly East, dated 22.11.99, expressing surprise at his action, requesting names of all those issued arms and demanding that they should not be used to support the Free State Forces. 1 page.
3. From Nicholson, Bulawayo to High Commissioner, dated 12th Nov., relaying a report from Baden-Powell about military action, '6th November. All well. We have had a few successful sorties. Our loss is 2 officers and 17 men killed and 29 men wounded. 4 officers slightly. Enemy's loss heavy……..' 1 page.
4. From Resident Magistrate, Prieska, to the Secretary Law Department, Cape Town, dated 23.11.99. stating that the raising of a local force is out of the question as inhabitants of Hay
are mainly Dutch origin and reporting on rebel activity in the region. 1 page.
5. From Commissioner of Police, Queenstown to the Secretary of Law Department, Cape Town, reporting that the Dutch Colonials are joining the Free Staters, etc. 1 page.

An interesting insight into the problems of the north eastern Cape in the very early days of the Anglo-Boer War and the mixed loyalties of the farmers.

  • Sold By: Clarke's Africana & Rare Books
  • Contact Person: Paul Mills
  • Country: South Africa
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  • Telephone: 021 794 0600
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