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January 19th 6 years 1 month ago #57512

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1900 - From the diary of Major George Tatham, Natal Carbineers

Visited outposts with Col. Royston. Nothing exceptional transpired all day. Long Tom gave us his usual few shells. Most favourable reports came in of Buller's successful advances on Brakfontein.
Dr David Biggins

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January 19th 2 years 2 months ago #80865

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1899 - Diary of the siege of Mafeking by Edward Ross

Friday, 19 January

Enemy opened shellfire very early this morning with their five-pounder and 1-pounder Maxim, and later Big Ben commenced to roar.

Grant’s house was again hit by big splinters, the fellows inside having a very narrow escape. One large piece passed through the dining-room where four or five of them were sitting. It spread-eagled the lot by the concussion, nobody being injured.

Kiddy the electric engineer was removed to the hospital this morning, case of acute pneumonia. Hear about town that this gentleman, who was supposed to be in charge of the surrounding dynamite mines, has been suspended, charge unknown, but there is seemingly some truth in the matter.

What is considered one of the most marvellous escapes since the siege commenced occurred today. A 94-pound shell struck the window of the Town Hall, passing through the whole length of the body of the hall and making its exit at the far northern corner, blowing out a large hole in the brick wall. The Town Hall is at present being used as a depot by the Mafeking Volunteers, and at the time the shell passed through a lot of men were sitting inside playing cards, another little knot sitting outside immediately under the wall where the shell came through, a few in the dugout, and a lot more knocking about dotted here and there within a few yards of the place, and miraculously to say, not a single man was struck. It is almost unbelievable.

Major Panzera had his first trial of the new local made shells today. They fired about 12 rounds from the seven-pounder and made very good shooting. Big Ben replied and tried to knock them out, but being awkwardly placed could not get near them.

White flag came in today from the Boers bringing some private correspondence.

The total dead and wounded up to date, including white and black, totals 253. Big list of casualties.
Dr David Biggins

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