TOPIC: Mafeking

Map of the Brickfields

Source: Baden-Powell of Mafeking by J S Fletcher

Topographical sketch showing the British and Boer Positions

The officer in Mafeking who sent this sketch gives the following summary, up to November 15, of the siege which has been so gallantly withstood, under the skilful direction of Colonel Baden-Powell: The siege began on October 13 when a small force of British Irregulars, police and townspeople took up the defence under Imperial officers. The town and native town contained about 7,500 native inhabitants and 1,000 whites. The enemy's force consisted of around 8,000 men with 9 guns which surrounded and bombarded the place. The garrison made several vigorous counter-strikes by which they discouraged the enemy from pushing home any attacks. The British losses up to November 15 have been 2 officers and 17 men killed, 4 officers, 32 men, 2 women and one child wounded. The enemy's losses have been over 100 killed and 370 wounded.

The accompanying sketch map explains the relative positions of the forces. The flags shown are red Cross flags which have been persistently fired upon by Boer guns. The convent, in particular, is now a wreck. The crossed swords show scenes of engagements up to the date names - in each of which the garrison came off victorious.



Source: The Graphic, 3 February 1900