TOPIC:

Thanks Rob. I think you've cracked it.

I would like some help with the following field note.




I read:
Cpl Jillett (?) Spn? IV

A tamed (?) Boer is going out with mule wagon this morning to beyond Kopjes South of your post. do not fire on him.

27-10-01

??? sgt HBRB Spn? V

Can anyone place this note into proper context? There are two men mentioned on this site with the name Jillett. One is a Pte. Tasman Jillet from the 4th Bat Australian Commonwealth Horse. The other is a certain J. Jillett attached to a NZ unit. The use of the word “tamed” Boer, if that is indeed written, I have not come across before but perhaps would fit the vocabulary of an Oz or NZ farmhand a century ago. Any idea where this note could have been written? Who the Sgt signing off can be?

A thought : as the T in 'Tamed' looks a lot like the first letter of the corporal's surname, his name might have been Tillett rather than Jillett.

I'm pretty sure your man is 5248 Corporal F. Tillet, 1st Bn. Rifle Brigade.

I believe the abbreviation bottom right is "1.B.R.B." (1st Bn. Rifle Brigade).

No idea what the abbreviation "Spn" stands for.

Neville

Below are the movements of the 1st B.R.B. during the relevant period (Rifle Brigade Chronicle, 1901). It appears they were guarding the railway line on the stretch passing through Rietvlei, Greylingstad and Vlaklaagte. Presumably on blockhouse duty.











..

Arthur & Neville, many thanks for solving the puzzle. The field note came (in 2008) in one lot with a Christmas card of the Rifle Corps + blanc envelope. It never occurred to me that the items could be related.