FORBES, DAVID, Captain, was born 13
December 1864, son of David Forbes, of Athole, District of Ermelo, Transvaal
(late of Perthshire, Scotland), and of Mrs Forbes. He was educated
privately, and started stock farming in the Transvaal and Mining in
Swaziland; was a Member of the first Swaziland Government, formed under a
Charter granted by the Swazi King, Umbandini, and at one time was Acting
Chairman to that body. He served in the South African War, 1899-1902; was
on General Sir John Dartnell's Staff for Intelligence; on General Bullock's
Staff on the Mobile Column, Transvaal and Orange River Colony; General Spens'
Staff, Transvaal and Orange River Colony; commanded the Lubounto
Intelligence Scouts in the Southern Transvaal (Despatches by Lord Roberts,
Lord Kitchener and General Sir John Dartnell); awarded South African Medals
and clasps, and was created a Companion of the Distinguished Service Order
[London Gazette, 26 June 1902]: "David Forbes, Captain, Field Intelligence
Department. In recognition of services during the operations in South
Africa". The Insignia, Warrant and Statutes were sent to the Colonial
Office, and presented at Ermelo 15 May 1903. Captain Forbes later became
General Manager and Director of the Swazi Coal Mines, Limited, Swaziland.
