TOPIC:

Hello Frank,
I thought you might like this one
And thanks for the ever information as always.

Paul

Frank Kelley wrote: A local hero and quite a character Paul, I recently had a drink or three in "The Ladysmith" in his memory!

coldstream wrote: No.83

Hello Paul,
The defence of Manchester Fort and Caesar's Camp by Colonel Curran and his boys, indeed, the whole of the Platrand ridge on the 5th and 6th, was a Victorian Epic, I have been thinking about it since I was about seven years old, moreover, every time I walk past their memorial, again, I start to think about it!
Kind regards Frank

It is surprising that the Battle of Wagon Hill/Caesar's Camp/Platrand does not loom as large in the history books as other battles such as Talana, Elandslaagte and Spioen Kop. Perhaps it is simply a matter of it being regarded as only an 'incident' in the bigger picture of the Ladysmith siege. However, in terms of the courage and fortitude of the men on both sides, who were in close contact from early morning to late afternoon along the entire length of the hill, it was an epic battle. Even the late afternoon thunderstorm was as dramatic an accompaniment to the battle's end as could be imagined.

Although inspirational for the defenders of Ladysmith, it must have been disheartening for the Boers, who learnt from it that Ladysmith would not fall to a direct attack.

Brett

Paul is now using Robert Scott as his avatar!

Frank
You know I like to change my avatar frequently, this fine gentleman seemed appropriate!

Paul

Frank Kelley wrote: Paul is now using Robert Scott as his avatar!

Frank/Brett,
I have a postcard Caesars Hill, I assume this is the same area?




Paul

Frank Kelley wrote: Hello Paul,
The defence of Manchester Fort and Caeser's Camp by Colonel Curran and his boys, indeed, the whole of the Platrand ridge on the 5th and 6th, was a Victorian Epic, I have been thinking about it since I was about seven years old, moreover, every time I walk past their memorial, again, I start to think about it!
Kind regards Frank