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Construction train, Vaal River

To repair bridges, or any part of the line which was blown up, as soon after as possible a train similar to the one in the illustration, was despatched to the scene of the break. These trains were many times attacked by the Boers are the repairing party, both military and civilian, often suffered loss.

Sappers of the RE at work on deviation

At many stations, where the points were damaged, the civilians of the regular railway staff would repair the main line. Then a little later, a detachment of Engineers would arrive and in an incredibly short space of time, all the lines would be in working order.

Vaal River deviation bridge

The set of four pictures are intended to show how a temporary bridge is built across a river, where a deviation is necessary, by the Royal Engineers.



Initial stage

The most favourable spot has been selected and the work has just begun.



A little further forward

A glance at this picture will be sufficient to perceive that considerable progress has been made. Hundreds of natives have been employed to bring stone to level up the bottom, the foundation is laid and part of the frame work has been raised to the proper elevation.



Almost complete

The bridge is now well on towards completion. A large number of men, with plenty of native labour are busy making a deep cutting near the river bank, the rails are all ready to be laid, and in a short time trains will be able to cross.



Trial train crossing

In this last picture, the first engine is seen going slowly over to test the bridge, which is now finished. This means that railway communication was once more restored from Cape Town to Johannesburg and Pretoria, the line being intact beyond this point.

RE camp on the Vaal River

In the middle distance, on the right of the picture, can be just seen the broken Vaal River Bridge, and about the centre is the completed temporary structure, while in the foreground are the tents of the Engineers employed on the work. The Pretoria-Cape Town main line can also be seen.

Lady Roberts and daughters on the way to Pretoria

This photo was taken while the train was standing in Viljoen's Drift station and the distinguished officer with whom the ladies are conversing is General Smith-Dorrien. Lady Roberts, who is very popular with the troops, received three hearty cheers as the train left.

Breakfast time, 8th Mounted Infantry

When stationed on lines of communication Tommy has ample time to attend to the requirements of the inner man and he then fully makes up for any previous neglect, though not always at Government expense. He certainly makes the best of the bad times however and his appetite is generally good.