SYW Generals and WW2 commission

So things have calmed down since the end of the challenge, I have almost finished the 15mm WW2 commission just the last few touches on them.

I still have the command stands left for the French SYW and with it looking like I will be playing with the french next week when I go up to visit my Dad I thought I had better paint up a few of the command. I have the base left to do but this stand which will be the General is finished, its just a simple clean paint job (no bells and whistles) but it fits with the rest of the army.

Lastly I have started on the next batch of the Orc BB team.

At least its not a motorbike

So I think that I have hit my mid life crisis, after finding a community that will play Warhammer the way I always love to I now feel I MUST recreate those heady days of the 80's when I had WFB armies aplenty and spent many a happy school holiday tucked away in a tin hut (our wargames club) in the Mediterranean sun (heat stroke was always an option).
As I want to save all you perfectly sane poeple from my mad rush back to my youth I have started a second blog which will record my efforts to replace, first my Dwarfs and then who knows. If you are already a little mad and want to see how I get on feel free to pop on over and check it out
http://exilesoldhammer.blogspot.co.uk/

To which end the British Nap unit I was painting has gone back into the lead pile and my Dwarf box has been pulled to the front.
 

Blood Bowl Orcs and Goblins

The first batch of a 48 figure BB commission are completed up to the last touches, these with the base's and numbers will be completed all together to make sure the team works as a whole unit. I am loving these BB figures and it is so nice to do a bit of fantasy after so many historical mini's.

I have be having some interesting thoughts about my painting recently, I know I have a style that people like and I know that others think my painting is ace (my Dad tells me so all the time) but I have to admit I do not much like my own painting. Maybe its because I can see all the errors in my figures but I look at others figures and love them and as much as I try to adapt my style I tend to fall back onto the usual style, its not a problem as I can paint them well and quick I just wish I could adjust myself to be a slower more delicate painter. It is never going to happen, believe me I tried all that happened is I became an unhappy painter with very little output and a growing lead pile. I came back to what I enjoy which is producing great wargames units/armies at a good TT standard.
I guess I wanted to ask you guys who are all painters do you like your painting?

Peace James (a happy painter)

Painting Table's WIP

So today is the first day since the end of the challenge that the painting table has hit full speed again. I have a few commissions on the go, the last 15mm Para's and the start of a huge Blood bowl Orc and Goblin team. On top of this I am doing the Generals for our French SYW army and for no other reason than I always wanted to I am painting a 28mm Nap British unit (or army will see how it goes, I have enough figures).

Last night during my break I was having a surf and found some thing that fired my gaming juice's, I used to love WFB I have in my time owned painted and sold most of the armies you could have for WFB including Nippon and Norse (I should point out I was lucky to have a Dad who bought the armies) the peak of my gaming was 3rd edition and I slowly lost the love since then. So imagine my joy to find that there is a group of gamers who feel just the same. Check out the following blog Warhammer for adults  and even better they have a weekend of 3rd edition gaming at Foundry in Aug oldhammer event foundry 2013 if like me you are a lover of 3rd ed and like a good forum check out http://bloodforum.treps.net/viewtopic.php?f=25&t=388
All I need to do now is paint up (and buy) my Dwarven army and I might just be nipping down to Nottingham at the end of Aug.
I was glad to see my last post has got plenty of reaction I am hoping I can keep posting enough of interest to keep the visitors coming.
Peace James

Skrimish Games Good/Bad?

Good for the gamer but is it good for the Industry?

So anyone who is a wargamer will have noticed that over the last few years we are seeing a lot of skirmish rules sets coming out, one thing these have in common is most are coming from small companies or even one person productions. I asked myself why this was, I know many large companies have backed rules sets but I question if they really want to see them.

Why would I think this you may ask, it all about the money for our favourite figure company to produce new sculpts they need us to keep buying lots of the older ones. The thing about skirmish games (and the reason many gamers love them) is that for as little as £30-40 you can have a force that you can play with.

 

 Compare this with an army to play a full scale battle game and you are looking a £200-£300 even for a mid size army.

 

I guess for an example of skirmish Vs Battle you need to look at GW they produce good skirmish game’s (Mordheim and Necromunda) but soon stop supporting them while they pile all their efforts into WFB and 40K.

I am not saying that skirmish games will kill our hobby but I could see smaller companies putting less money into new figures if they know they will only sell small amounts do not forget they will have a set number of figures they have to sell before they even start making profit. I love a good skirmish game as much as the next gamer but I think if we want to see our hobby grow and be worth the investment for companies we need to remember big battles too

Just my pennies worth,
Peace James

 

Support Kev Adams

GoblinAid: Project to Support Kev Adams

For those who missed the news about Kev Adams, the Goblinmeister. He has been stabbed some days ago at his home by burglars. He's now back at home and is recovering from his injuries. The nice guys at The Lead Adventure Forum set up a thread and Dags and Geronimo if I'm not mistaken has set up a Facebook page to coordinate support actions and as you can see in this post.

Confirmed sculptors so far, making 28mm goblins to raise funds to help Kev out:

• Tre Manor (RedBox Games)
• Jason Wiebe (Reaper, etc)
• Chaz Elliot (WotC, Citadel, etc)
• Des Hanley (Otherworld)
• Alex Bates (Forge of Ice)
• Steven Marchant (Inso)
• Stuart Powley (SLAP minis)

Minis to be moulded & cast by Paul Reid (Ral Partha Europe), Resin bases from me to accompany the set. Assorted painters have offered their services, too, but I'm holding off on further details 'till we can nail something more concrete down in terms of what needs doing, etc. Hope that suits everyone who's offered their time & services. Need to get a bank account organised next so that we can take PayPal donations from anyone who can't find us in person.

Mac @ South London Warlords/ Salute has okayed us for collecting tins on the day, so there'll also be goblin green shaky tins on a number of trade stalls for you to throw any spare change into.

Interested in the coordinated actions and more news take a look on Facebook here.

Bloggers, please feel free to share this post to raise funds!

Zulu War Diary Part 3

August

 

1^st- Slipped mooring and went out to sea en route for Natal having on board General Chelmsford, a stiff breeze blowing.

7^th- Anchored at Natal at midnight, General left ship next morning manned yards Marines Forming guard of Honour fired salute of 17 guns.

8^th- 2 Barques washed ashore in the open roadstead where we lay.

15^th- After dark orders came aboard to sail for East London for troops, and in about an hour was on the way there.

17^th Passed East London this morning having lost our reckoning owing to strong currents we had gone 50 miles past it before it was found out. We about ship and came back again dropping anchor at 7.0.p.m. on the next day 18^th 100 men of the 1/24^th came aboard with their baggage, as soon as they got aboard we got on the way to Natal again. On the 23^rd caterers of messes allowed ashore I went and got good wetting crossing bar after crossing which we got into a very fine Harbour, we landed along side a wharf the people eyeing us very much. The first place we saw as is generally the case was a hotel and the first place a bluejacket or marine pops into, we soon had a few bottles of beer on the table it being 2/- a bottle. We then went on to Durban but I have not much to say about it, remained ashore for night next coming aboard with provisions, also bought oranges, bananas, pineapples etc. for the mess.

26^th- General came aboard hands piped to get up anchor, their was a heavy swell on at time, when we got a good strain on the capstan when the ship gave a heavy lurch, putting such strain on as to smash capstan bars like so many matches there was a panic for a moment as we jumped clear of the bars but some of them were bent so much, we were just rigging deck tackle to get up anchor when the cable snapped nearly carrying away capstan. Having lost our anchor we sailed for St Johns River, but soon came back owing to sea rising and let go one of our sheet anchors. Next morning we got up anchor with deck tackles after a few hours hard work to find that this anchor was broken which is now useless and we had to let go our port sheet anchor at St Johns River, where Commodore and General went ashore to find good place for landing troops. They soon came back again to ship that night it came on to blow, engines turning all night to take strain of cable anchor watch kept and leadsman in chains to see we did not drift any.

30^th- Landed troops this morning the weather having abated and soon after that got ashore saw the British flag hoisted on a hill.

31^st-Got up anchor and lay to waiting for General coming down the river but it came on rough and he could not cross bar at mouth of river, we had to lay to all night under steam.

September

 

1^st- Morning calm and beautiful and General came aboard and we started for Natal where we arrived next day but did not anchor merely laying to while General landed and then proceeded back to Simons bay, with a head wind now commenced our hardships again, we were almost without coal and will have to stop steaming. Next day we had stopped steaming wind blowing a stiff gale ship rolling and pitching heavily everything double secured, lifelines placed along decks. Heavy seas wash over us. The ship often rolls 3 ratlines (main) below water. For 14 days we were in this gale of wind, beating close up to it under reefed fore and main topsails. We had to wear ship about every 6 hours. On the 10^th I slipped as the ship gave a heavy lurch cutting my eye severely. I was taken to doctor, as I was almost knocked insensible.  Many others have received injuries by falling. We cannot do anything in the shape of work, about 2.0.a.m. this morning the storm raged fiercer than ever some heavy seas washing over her. On the 11^th wind abated a little but sprung up again during night.

14^th-Wind went down considerably and on Sunday 15^th took up our moorings in Simons Bay. Having been 14 days coming 700 miles, which we have done before in 3 days. The waves rise higher and the storms and hurricanes more violent at the cape than any other part of the world, the wind or gale often blowing for weeks together, a south easter being the most violent.

16^th Marine killed by a spar falling from above and fracturing his skull.

26^th- Quarters, fired 4 rounds each gun.

October

 

2^nd- 48 hours leave to Cape Town.

15^th- Went to Naval hospital ashore with hurt, discharged on 31^st, ship going to Natal again.

November

 

2^nd- Set sail for Natal the weather was splendid and we run it in 3 days 17 hours. We lay to while we communicated with shore. On getting which we let go anchor. Everybody is making preparations of a war with the Zulu’s.

7^th- We left Natal for Delagoa Bay arriving there on the 9^th next day sending our steam punnace ashore to confer with Portuguese Governor respecting landing of arms in this place for Zulu’s by merchant vessels. Set sail again on the 12^th back to Natal arriving there on 14^th from 14^th to 19^th very busy preparing to land for Zulu war.

20^th-Next morning we were on the march by 6.0.a.m. marched 5 or 6 miles and halted for breakfast, after which resumed the march, halting for the night at a small river called         .This river afforded us a finer bathe, very refreshing after a hot days march. The place abounds in prickly pear trees.

21th-Up at break of the day next morning. Some time being taken up in rearranging baggage on waggons, when we resumed our march. As we advanced, civilised habitations became few and far between, here and there a solitary farmhouse or stores was seen. They got scarcer as we marched along, some fine landscape scenery met our view, this part of the route being very undulating and covered in many places with splendid vegetation, halted for dinner at another river        and then marched till sunset, when we arrived at the river       ,where we spent some time in finding a suitable place for camping, as the place was full of sugar plantations. However we managed to pitch tents among the sugar canes though in a straggling fashion. Orange and lemon trees, and banana trees were growing in the gardens of the natives. There was a sugar mill in the village for crushing the canes. It rained hard during the night.

22^nd-Crossed the river which was wide but shallow, early in the morning, Merely pulling our boots off and tucking trousers up as we crossed. The day was very cool and marching pleasant, with the exception of the roads being a little heavy after the rain we had during the night. The scenery along the road was beautiful and very varying. 7 or 8 miles brought us to a river, here we halted to off boots and pants. I and several others went a little down the river to find a good place to cross. I went on very well till about half way over, when I slipped on a rock and nearly went over head. Luckily I stuck to my rifle with one hand while the other clutched the rock, or I might have been carried a little further down stream as there was a great force of water rushed between the rocks. However I managed to get to the other side, stepping from rock to rock. When I got over, hearing someone shout, I turned to see what was the matter, when I observed them pointing to some objects in the water that on close inspection proved to be crocodiles. This made some of the men rather timid about crossing and some waited for the wagons to cross on which they mounted and so got over dry footed. On reaching the other side we encamped, owing to the oxen being tired out. We took advantage of this to wash are clothes in the river as it was early in the day. Saw a few more crocodiles while doing so.

23^rd-On the march again this morning, which after a few hours brought us to a place called Stanger, where we encamped, this being a very short march as it was only 10.0.a.m. when we pitch tents, there is a small river here, a hotel, stores and military barrack.

24^th-Did not start this morning till 10.0.a.m. owing to the rain, it had continued raining since we halted yesterday. After a march of some few miles, we arrived at the banks of the river Tugela, our destination for the present. This river is very wide (about 300 yards) and deep in places, and after heavy rain little better than a rushing torrent, it empties itself into the sea about four miles from here. On the top of a hill in a very commanding position and overlooking the river from which it is inaccessible, is a fortification called Fort Pearson, its front and left face is almost perpendicular from the river, of solid rock.

   A detachment of the 3rd Buffs (about 170) were stationed here, who received us with cheers and when we had pitched our tents, they marched us up to their own canteen and regaling us with a pint of beer each, which we were by no means loath to drink after our march. We relieve them; they have been here three weeks but will now join their depot at Thrings post.

25^th-Next morning we busied ourselves placing guns in the fort, storing the ammunition in magazines. We had bathing parades at 5.30.a.m., and again in the evening, this will continue while we are here.

DECEMBER

 

 

1^st-During the past few days we have not done much, we erected a camp oven, but it would not bake properly, and we preferred baking our own bread in camp kettle lids, one company of brigade manning fort. Large numbers of pondos are crossing the river from this side and returning to there own country. No doubt thinking it best to go now before the war breaks out. Their goods are well searched for arms etc., by the authorities, which they are not allowed to take with them. It is laughable to see some of the goods they are taking over to there country, fancy trunks, silk umbrellas of all shape and colors, there is nothing more odd than to see a naked savage triumphantly carrying a fancy sunshade over his head. These are men who immigrated from their own country and came into Natal to be employed by the traders and farmers, and these things were the products of their savings.

    At divisions, Capt. Larnplell said prayer, read articles of war; warned us about having connection with native women, who according to the laws of their country would suffer death for doing so.

3^rd-Yesterday paid money, received 20/- at 6.0.a.m. This morning went down river in a boat with four others, for the purpose of laying a target on one of the sandbanks in the centre of the river, after fixing the target we went to another small island covered with long grass in which were hundreds of what appeared to be canary nests, made of grass and woven in a wonderfully delicate and intricate manner to the tops of the long reeds, most of the nests contained eggs of a cream color with black

 spots. In one of the nests we found a beautifully colored frog, being white and marked with black lines like Chinese hieroglyphics intended bringing it to camp as a curiosity, but in reaching the nest down it jumped out and I lost sight of it amid the rushes. Guanos are very plentiful; crocodiles have also been seen on the banks of the river further down. After securing one of the nests we got to the boat again and pulled down stream, as we made the boat fast the bugle sounded for breakfast, which was welcome our pull up the river having given us an appetite.

4^th-A large snake, eight feet long was caught this morning by several marines while bathing. He essayed to attack them twice but from the loose nature of the sand was unable to make a spring at them, our fellows had provided themselves with sticks before the snake could escape into the water, and beat it to death. It was brought to camp and given to Doctor Thompson who is making a collection, who pronounced it a Cobra di capello. A troop of twenty mounted volunteers encamped here this evening. The weather is insufferably hot.

10^th-This is the day fixed for the reading of Sir Bartle Freres Ultimatum to the deputies of the King, but though everyone was waiting they did not arrive here today. A bodyguard of 20 Marines and 20 Bluejackets were held in readiness all day, receiving 10 rounds of ammunition extra.

11^th-Early this morning the chiefs of the Zulus were observed coming down towards the river. I should say there was about 150 of them, boats were engaged to bring them across, about noon all the chiefs had arrived at this side of the river, and the high commissioners took their places under a large tree close to the river. Over the tree was spread a wagon cover as an awning, and underneath it were a table and a few chairs. The king’s deputies squatted down on the ground in front of the table, the bodyguard of marines and bluejackets being formed outside them. Then the proceedings commenced by one of the commissioners reading to them Sir Bartles award.

The boundary lines were first spoken of the land this side of the buffalo and blood rivers was to belong to the British government, and other matters concerning the transvaal was spoken of, but to uninteresting to write of fully, suffice it is to say that the king was to disband his army, and send them to their homes and that soldiers were to be allowed to marry when they liked. That no acts of violence or aggression among his own people was to be committed by him, and that the king be fined 600 head of cattle, for detaining British subjects and acts of violence to others he was not to take the lives of any of his subjects, before being tried in his presence by a recorder. Who are for the future to be stationed in Zululand.At present he puts his people to death for adultery, stealing cattle, which-craft and many other offences.

The ultimatum was interpreted to the kings deputies by Major Fynney the border agent it was after 4.0.p.m. before the proceedings terminated. Some of the chiefs shaking there heads and expressing their opinion that the king would never submit to the terms of the government

  An enterprising photographer named Loydd from Natal, photographed the proceedings under the tree, which no doubt will prove interesting, and on the following day took photo of brigade formed in the line four deep, two front ranks kneeling the other two standing and at the ready position, the marines being in centre of the brigade a gun on each flank.

This was one of many moments when typing up this diary blew me away because to help with some of the names of land marks and units I had my Zulu War ref book and the above picture was in it. I now look at this picture and know that one of the Marines in my relative.

24^th (Christmas Eve)-Up to this date nothing of any consequence has occurred. I received a letter from mother on the 17th who writes me that all is well. We frequently march out of a morning for exercise and we have been practising during the past few days for sports, which our captain is about to get up on Boxing Day, including, tugs of war, running. Jumping, hurdle races, three legged races, throwing a weight, etc. this is Christmas Eve and I am busy stoning raisins, pickling current, etc. We obtained the materials from stanger about 18 miles off, my tent mates stopping up in watches till 3.0.a.m. on Christmas morning boiling it. There is every prospect of enjoying a merry Christmas.

25^th (Christmas day)-Christmas day dawned upon us with every appearance of being a fine day, and it proved to be so, the sun pouring its burning rays on us pitilessly. We attended divine service after which the tents were inspected. Most of them being gaily decorated with branches of trees in blossom and with fruit. In my tent I had molloes cut out of paper and branches of trees forming an arch over the tent door, inside the tent we decorated with eatables, arranging them in such a manner with flowers and fruit as to look very nice. We had roast and corned meat for dinner, the meat we corned ourselves, plenty of plum pudding, which is indispensable to a Christmas dinner, and plenty of English ale procured from Natal by the canteen at 1/6 a quart. Capt. Campbell having advanced us 5/0 per man in the morning so that we could get sufficient for our wants. I was cook on this day and remained in the tent to arrange it for the officers inspection, to whom I wished a merry Christmas at the same time inviting them to have a piece of pudding, which they praised very highly considering it was made in the field. Christmas passed very jolly indeed far different from the last Christmas I had on shore during the Kafir war.

26^th (Boxing Day)-Sport commenced at 2.0.p.m. the first race; a hurdle race was won by thos. Smith R.M who also won the 100-yard flat race. The three legged race was taken by Thos Smith and J.H.Cook R.M, half mile by Seanlon R.M, long jump and throwing the weight by P.Nagle G.M, tug of war by the marines pulled by companies of 10 in a team, consolation race by J.Smith, the sack race was very amusing as well as the chase after a pig which was caught by L.Warren. Everything passed of very well and a very enjoyable day was spent. The canteen being well patronised during the evening.

28^th-Gear coming up every day for pontoon bridge, which we are busily engaged in preparing for the troops to cross-river Commodore and Sub Lieut. Heugh arrived here from Durban.

29^th-Sunday, Inspection by General Lord Thesiger who spoke a few words to us " on the pleasure he felt to have us under his command once more, and that he wished to impress on our minds that when we crossed the river into the enemies country, we should always be on the alert when on outpost and that although the enemy might not attack us for the first, second or even the third week, we should not abate any of our watchfulness or become careless. For come they assuredly would sooner or later and that we should not be afraid if sometimes opposed to 10 or even 15 times our number for we should remember that they knew nothing of discipline and he was sure we should not fail to leave are mark behind us." The Commodore also spoke a few words " on the confidence he placed in us that we would not be behind in upholding the name the navy has always borne." At the close three cheers were given by the men for the General and Commodore.

Painting Ronin Pipped at the post

Well its all over now and I could not live with Chris's two last day entries. A big well done to Chris, I guess with Ray pipping Kent last year it was the Kiwi's turn this year. I say that makes it UK 1 NZ 1 next year will be the decider :)
So below is the last entry I had some SYW French, Romano British and 54mm ECW. The 54mm stuff is being sent off to Kev to add to his own collection.

I had great fun in this challenge and have met (on line) some great wargamers. I hope that I can meet many of you in person at Salute this year where I will be with my Dad and Bernard.
So today I have cleaned up the painting table.

and what is a man to do after 90 days of back to back painting burning the midnight oil....
break out the commission work, a complete Orc Blood Bowl Team.

So I hope all my fellow Ronin are recovering well from all their hard work and that Curt has recovered from his marathon blogging stint yesterday. I will be trying to keep up a good pace of post's on the blog as I have had fun reading all your comments.

Peace James

Painting Ronin End of Term Report

Well I have finished painting all I will for the Challenge and what fun its been. I have one last varnish to apply then photograph and send off my last entry to Curt.
I think I want to take this time to thank Curt for putting on this great challenge, it gave me just the push I need to complete an almost complete SYW French army for Black Powder (just the command stands to paint). It kicked me into finishing the last of the F&IW figures and even had me dusting off a few projects that had worked their way to the back of my lead pile. I know that the size of this years challenge has maybe been more than would have been sensible for Curt but the library of pictures we have created will feed wargamers for many a year to come. We have seen all from 6mm to 54mm and every era has been covered at some point from ancients all the way to modern day.
I have found loads of more blog's to follow and some real characters that I hope I can meet at Salute this year (tickets booked and hotel sorted)
So I guess I should give some idea of my output in total I have painted 646 figures over the 90 days which works out at 7.1 figures a day. Not bad and I fitted in a weeks holiday in Norfolk and a Chrismas break and long weekend in Morecambe (means I have space to improve next year)
I must also thank my Dad and Bernard (my Sisters Farther-in-law) who paid for most of the SYW French figures and F&IW stuff, without which I would have painted my lead pile dry. I think Dad is already planing what to send me next year.
Till Salute or Next challenge Peace
James Brewerton

 

Painting Ronin Day 88

Well as we near the end of the challenge time grows short, my hockey season also nears its end and we have game's to catch up meaning a couple of double weekends. I also had to go into work a night early this week all of which meant that on the weekend when I wanted to be hitting full steam I in fact only got a couple of hours.
I did manage to complete the SYW artillery and a unit of Romano British Cav but that may be all that make's it to Curt in time.
I have not shown pictures of the last entry so feast your eyes.

Zulu War Diary Part 2

27^th- For the past few days we had men at work on dockyard drill parties, gun and rifle practice etc. There is to be a ball tonight at commodores House, Hark! What is that I hear an unusual commotion on deck, I go to see what it is and find they have signalled from shore to get ready for sea at once. Everything is in disorder, a great part of our gear is being overhauled at the dockyard, and we have now to refit ship in a hurry. We are to carry soldiers to Kafir War.

29^th-We were working nearly all day and night getting in stores provision for ship. Bending sails etc. on the 30^th 200 men of the 88^th C.R. came aboard and 10 R.A with their traps, tents, blankets ammunition etc. the soldiers were packed as close as herrings in a barrel our ship not being fitted for carrying troops. Commander read a letter of thanks to us for the goodwill and energy with which we worked to get ship ready for sea, soon after noon Commodore came aboard and put out to sea, sea rough and choppy.

October

 

1^st-A gale of wind blowing, ship rolling and pitching, the soldiers poor fellows are very sea sick and lay about the decks as if they were about to die. A good many of our sailors were sick but they did not care to own up to it but I saw several of them with their heads over the tubs, but I daresay they were only looking in their faces which the dish water reflected. I am happy to say that I have been free from seasickness as yet. The sea strikes the ship so violently at times as to make her shiver from stern to stem, and takes in great seas over her forecastle.

3^rd- Dropped anchor at East London soon after some boatmen came off from shore bringing news of an engagement with Kafirs in which 300 were killed, the surf boats came alongside and the 88^th landed with their tents etc. as they pushed of from the ship our band struck up “ Patrick’s Day” when they commenced cheering loudly, our officers and men waved their hats wishing godspeed and a safe return from the war. The Commodore has gone ashore to see the general, to see of there is any further orders or news, we do not know whether we will land or not yet, the ships company are all very eager to land and have a go at the Kafirs.

4^th- We are not to land this time Commodore came aboard and got under way for Simons Bay again, saw a large whale as we were running down the coast we could see bodies of Kafirs now and again I gave them several shots from my 7 inch gun knocking a few of them over, on the 6t^h we arrived in Simons Bay again.

9^th -Went Ashore for a walk and a bathe, while in the water five or six African women came to bathe in the same place, taking nit the slightest notice of my presence, and undressing within a few yards of me. I was rather unnerved but had to make the best of it.

21^st-Went to chapel for the first time since leaving Portsmouth, an English priest officiated, on the 22^nd H.M.S. Industry came in the bay having on board ‘Stanley’ the African explorer and his native followers, being their way to their native place Zanzibar, the afternoon we had  ‘Stanley’ and about 100 of his followers aboard to visit a real man of war, as soon as they came aboard they ran all over the ship examining everything with the greatest curiosity, they were also much surprised as well as alarmed when we fired 2 or 3 rounds from our 6 ½ tons gun and fired a torpedo, they called them ‘very big guns’ make big noise and seemed highly delighted with everything, then our band began to ply and they rushed on deck and formed a circle around listening in silent wonder. They seemed to pay great respect to Stanley their dress was curious and varied some having only a shirt on other a singlet, or night shirt, given them by men and officers, having spent the afternoon aboard they went back well pleased with their trip.

26^th- Weather rough no communication with shore about 40 of our men ashore 3 days, and cannot come aboard our launch attempted to bring them off one night but was driven ashore where she remained till morning with a boat crew of 18 men in her. On Sunday the 28^th Stanley came aboard again and gave us an eloquent and humorous account of his travels, of his trials and hardships in his downward course of the Nyanza he had 37 battles with natives passed over 69 calasacts, he gave a humorous account of his intercourse with the natives, of their superstitions and traditions, he talked over two hours amusing us with his laughable incidents and sayings at the finish we gave him 3 cheers.

The same Stanley meeting Dr Livingstone on 10 November 1871

 

 

November

 

Whole of Ships Company landed for drill field and Gatling guns and rocket tube taken ashore for practice, the Industry left on the 6^th on the 7^th we had a ball aboard a great many ladies coming.

22^nd- Up steam slipped mooring and went to sea for prise firing we had some splendid practice making full points at every gun almost. I made the most number of points in ship winning £3.00. When finished we returned to harbour again, on the 26^th two whales were seen in Bay.

December

 

1^st- Went cricketing to Wynberg playing a match with the 88^th Regt. The band of the 88^th playing throughout the match we won went to Cape Town in evening.

6^th-A telegram that we are to take more troops to Kafir war and land ourselves has come aboard, There is 200 marines and bluejackets to land.

9^th- We have now everything ready for sea and we slipped our moorings and sailed fir table bay to pick up soldiers, anchored same day in table bay.

10^th- Troops came aboard and their band, sent letters home and then set sail for east London.

13^th- Arrived at east London could not land troops surf too high.

14^th-Troops got into boats to land wind was rising fast and soon after they left the ship the bar was too dangerous to cross the flag was hoisted ashore, a signal that there was no communication with shore. The poor soldiers in the boats had to remain all night tossed about in the surf boats, we could not take them aboard as our ship was rolling so heavily she would have smashed the boats had they come alongside, they were with out water or provisions. We tried to float provisions in barrels to them by means of a line but these got washed ashore then 6 men volunteered to man the life boat and take them some, which after some hard work they accomplished.

16^th We were up early next morning as we are going to land today, at 7.0.a.m. we were all ready, got into surf boats and went ashore, sea running high at the time making the landing dangerous but it was done without casualty. When we landed at East London put our packs tents etc. on bullock waggons and marched to Panmere where we pitched tents for the night. Next morning a party went back to landing place for our guns 6 – 12pr Armstrong’s, 1 –7pr and 1 gatling after bringing them up to Panmuse we dismounted them at railway placing them upon trucks, together with ammunition baggage etc. we then rode to Kei road 44 miles distance beyond which the railway did not extend, our route was along a wild waste of country, very hilly and mostly covered with rocks. The number of cattle we saw was suprising, we came across a few ostrich farms too, saw some splendid birds also as parrots peacocks etc. on arriving at Kei road we found that our tents blankets and camp kettles had been and would not be up till next morning, So we had to manage as well as we could with out them, to make matters worse it rained hard during the night giving us a foretaste of hardships.

18^th We found a large number of farmers here who have been driven from their homes by the Kafirs, to shelter in this place and band together for mutual protection they live in tents here with their wives and families. Our tents and stores came up today we were inspected by General Cunyingham today also Sir Bartle Frere the governor. The General said he was very glad to see the naval who were ever foremost in the field, and he had no doubt we should keep up the name we had always borne. Next day on the march with a portion of 88^th and 24^th Regt. We had 14 waggons each driven by a span of 16 oxen halted for night at Spring farm on the 20^th on the march again the naval brigade dividing into two parties, one going to Heka, the other to Fort Cunnynhame, I was with the latter party about 100 strong we walked 30 miles that day under a scorching sun and over a mountainous country, seldom meeting with water to assuage our thirst. Many of our men had to fall out exhausted not being accustomed to marching. We reached the fort at 9.0.p.m. at night meeting with a hearty reception from a party of the 88^th who we are to relieve we were all tired out and dead beat, the fort is only four stone walls with a gate to it, to retire into in case of numbers attacking us, it contains loopholes for firing out of and is built on a hill in a commanding position as we have a view of the surrounding country.

Christmas day 1877- employed cutting water course for the past few days and storing fire wood in case of being besieged which we cut in a forest not far away while cutting wood here found some beautiful birds nests chiefly parrots deer also seen, behind on the tops of the Quinlana Mountains it is said Lions and Tigers are to be found. Snakes are very plentiful but the most common are green snakes and grass snakes. We killed a boa constrictor 14 feet long yesterday. I can hardly believe this is Xmas everything is so green and the sweet scents of blossoms are wafted through the still air and greet the senses at every turn, while the sun is baking me at about 100 deg., whilst in the deep shade of the wood resting for a while I get thinking of home and a yearning for home came over me for a while but soon threw it off hoping to see them at some future time. Christmas day magic words in England when friends and relatives meet around the festive board to renew their bonds of love and friendship. Charley, Billy and Betty is home from school turning the house upside down and making themselves sick with eating plum pudding and plaguing the life out of Pater to take them to the pantomimes. In the morning we had prayers our Christmas dinner consisted hard biscuit and meat that it would take the jaw of a lion to masticate.

28^th- Escort to Kabousie for powder and encamped there for night during which we had a surprise by the enemy but soon drove them off. Next morning on the road back I had charge of advance guard saw a splendid buck and fired at him but missed and lost a good supper, on the 30^th a portion of our men was attacked on their way from Komgha, the loss of our men was 2 killed while a 100 Kafirs went to visit their happy hunting grounds.

January 78

 

Sandilli a chief who lives not a miles from us has broke into rebellion with 15000 men, about 200 English natives who are working a few miles from here on a railway have cut and run leaving about £20000 worth of gear to the mercy of the Kafirs they were afraid of the kafirs coming down upon them.

11^th- For the past few days we have been very busy disarming Kafirs in the neighbourhood, we have had several skirmishes with them and took many prisoners, The men are tall muscular and as straight as an arrow, they wear only a blanket thrown loosely over them, their weapons (national) is the Assegai or spears but most of them also carry a gun. The women are strong and have good features they are fond of jewellery chiefly brass rings of which they wear 3 or 4 on each finger and of their right arm up to the elbow is covered in rings. They also wear them on the leg their dress is merely a bit of beadwork or sheep skin around the loins, there are several tribes who are distinguished by being a little paler than the other tribes and are not so well formed. The women have very large breasts carry their children slung on their back and can also carry heavy weights on their head. The women do all the work they live in huts made of wickerwork thatched with straw; outside a Kraal is built of wooden stakes in a circular form for their cattle sheep goats’ etc. Their amusement only takes place about once a month the night of the new moon when they sing and dance all night they worship the sun moon and stars, have no idea of a god they are very superstitious and great believers in witchcraft there are several chief who have not overthrown their allegiance to the government, and we called them and their tribes in to a grand palaver today with all their arms and to be sworn loyal, the number of men we assembled of the Gatka tribe was 1418 men 203 guns 2000 assegais to make sure they were all here we sent out patrols of men to search the huts for men and arms and we brought about 30 prisoners in and many bundles of Assegai. They all gave their arms up and registered themselves as loyal Kafirs, before they dispersed we fired several times our Armstrong guns also Gatling to show the folly of fighting against the English and such destructive weapons.

12^th- Was patrol to night brought in prisoners shot two.

14^th- 200 Volunteers came down today to assist us in our fight with Sandilli, we went over to his territory this morning and burned his place down, attacking him twice with great loss on his side and only 4 men being wounded on ours. Continued burning his Kraals down during the night, next morning returned to get our casualties being 4 killed wounded 6 whites 15 Fingoes, took 800 head of cattle. This sort of life is already beginning to tell on me. Never having my clothes off, only one sort of food, every moment expecting attacks, on your feet every other day for 24 hours as outpost or guard.

26^th- A large party of volunteers came to relieve us today, we are going further up country as far as Kabousie, which we reached at 8.0.p.m. tonight.

28^th- Some of our men had broken in commissary waggons last night for rum, got too much of it, was found out and flogged next morning, one running away but sentry fired several shots at him bringing him back.

 

 

31^st- Struck tents and on the march for Kabousie, about 38 miles off. Marched 18 miles camping at Fort Wellington and was attacked during night raining heavy was wet through hard marching rain making the clayey ground soft several engagements had been fought just about here and the number of dead horses cattle and men along there was many and stinking horribly, Walked to Kabousie 16 miles with out breakfast, saw flocks of vultures all along the road we came.

February

 

2^nd- A private of the 88^th shot himself today through having shot another man by accident. On sun 3^rd went to prayers in camp, men fully armed and keeping helmets on to protect them from sun there is more respect and attention paid to these prayers said by some senior officer than there is in many an imposing edifice on peaceful England, where there would be a splendid display of bonnets of the newest fashion to distract your attention, the ringing of bells and singing and music to distract your attention.

6^th- Struck tents for 7 days patrol around country. Patrol consisting of 70 Marines and Bluejackets, 50 of the 88^th 29 mounted police, it commenced raining as we got on the march, we did not halt till two hours after dark. The grass was long and snakes plentiful, some of them crawled around our men’s legging as the walked through, I could hardly sleep that night though very tired, expecting every moment to fell a snake walking over me. Once I was going to the waggons for my blanket when hearing a rustling behind me and thinking it was a snake drew my sword made a cut which was followed by a sharp yelp at was a dog whom I had cut at instead of a snake.

Next day we had to wait several hours for a few 100 armed Fingoes to join us, and while waiting had a look around, I found that we had halted at the entrance of a beautiful valley called Chichala Valley one of the most delightful valleys ever I saw, surrounded by mountains and the scene of many a fight with the Kafirs, I went down the mountain in the valley below, making my way carefully among rocks and stones. On getting to the bottom I was surprised at the dead stillness all around me, not a breath of air not a rustle of the leaves, not a bird chirped to brake the dead stillness I shouted; the sound of my voice echoed and reached around the valley as if in mockery the silence overpowered and awed me and I hastily clambered up the mountain again. After ascending I saw the remains of a fort built during the last Kafir war, I also found two graves with inscriptions on them. At 2.0.p.m. the Fingoes came and we marched as far as waggons could go halted for night. And at 5.0.a.m. on the 8^th leaving police and 88^th to protect waggons we started to cross the Kei River, before getting to the Kei we had to descend a very high mountain into the valley below, before crossing river we had a couple of hours rest and then hiding our waterproof sheets and blankets in the thick bush (these being the only things we could bring with us having left our tents in waggons not being able to carry them with us down the mountain).  We crossed the river marching for several miles beating the bush for Kafirs but failed to find any and returned dead beat to the place we had our blankets where we halted for the night, had eaten nothing since 5.0.a.m. during patrol of the valley saw the most beautiful plants Indian corn and tabacco growing bamboo’s and splendid scenery. Wild and rocky mountains looming up on either side of us from which we could see the gambols of 100s of monkeys on their rocky sides. Our food had to be lowered down the mountain by means of a sledge made of bushes and the provision placed in bags on the top and lowered into the valley after I had tea I fell asleep under a bush for the night thoroughly exhausted and not even was troubled by the mosquitoes. The next day the 9^th sent out Fingoes to scour valley for kafirs, and we are watching river as we expect some of the enemy crossing tonight, we are now trying to hem them in in this valley, there are other troops on the mountains around with artillery shelling bush while we remain in valley to pounce on them as they come out. Prisoners brought in and Fingoes report plenty of enemy in vicinity.

11^th- 5.0.a.m on the march to the hills on our right, artillery on hills were shelling bush driving them out, we killed a great many during day several of our men shot, took some 100 head of cattle, returned to our bivouac for the night, short of food our provisions are done, sent for more but has not arrived yet had nothing today but a piece of biscuit, would give anything for a drop of tea after heat and fatigue of the day. Digging trenches in cool of evening.

14^th- Very little sleep lay awake listening to the howling of the jackals, varied at times by the screeching of owls and the croaking of frogs, amused ourselves next day shooting rabbits or monkeys which I managed by cutting up a bullet by a axe and using it as buckshot the monkeys are mostly seen in the early morning or in the evening when the rocks seem alive with them. Received news of an attack on IBeka by 8000 kafirs who were defeated with a loss of 400 killed. We have no tobacco and are smoking herbs, came on the rain during night the bush is no longer a shelter for us. We are thoroughly wet through and miserable.

17^th- This rain has continued for 3 days have been wet through all that time today we have commenced making huts of bulrushes for shelter.

18^th- Sunday broke on as miserable a set of human being as ever it has been my lot to witness wet through hungry and sick with exposure to this continued wet weather, all our provisions being done and no chance of getting more for present we got the orders to tramp again for Komgha, at 4.0.p.m. we commenced the ascent of the mountain with a bad heart, halting for the night at the top starting next day for Komgha 18 miles distant, with 10lbs of biscuit among 100 men for the march, we had a skirmish with the kafirs on the way killing and wounding several, we reached Komgha in the evening where we slept comfortably in our tents that night and had plenty of provisions, our rifles and swords were in a fearful state as well as ourselves with the wet weather.

25^th Attacked with dysentery and very bad, nearly all our men are suffering same complaint no doubt caused by our late exposure to the weather- fighting going on in our rear at fort Wellington.

March

 

3^rd- 20 prisoners brought in this morning looking terribly pinched with hunger IBeka party of marines are expected down tomorrow, we are ordered aboard at once though the war is far from over it is thought we are going down the coast to give another lesson to King Dahomey. Received news of our ship being caught in a gale while conveying troops to East London had her netting stove in and she is now under repairs at dockyard Simons Bay. In the afternoon the other party of marines and bluejackets came in from IBeka, amid a terrible thunderstorm, the lightning striking and killing all bullocks in one of their waggons. Next morning we all got on the march back to our ship arriving at Kei road on the evening of the13th, where our Capt. got a telegram to send 26 sailors and all the marines to K.W.Town, the remainder going back to ship in Hymalaya Troopship we remained for the night, I was of the party to go to K.W.T reaching there on the 14^th.

15^th- On the march for the Amalola mountains, it was 3.0.p.m. before we got on the march owing to various reasons. We took provisions for 14 days. We had not gone over a mile before a thunderstorm overtook our road was up the side of a mountain with very thick bush on either side of the road or rather gully, when the rain came on and down this track came the rain in torrents from the mountain nearly washing us away with its force, we were nearly up to our waist in water, the bullocks and waggons having the hardest battle in fact one waggon lower down was washed away altogether. However soon after we left the bush and was able to get out of the roadway. The storm lasted about 2 hours but left its traces in swollen rivers and streams over which we had to cross. We halted at dusk at a place called Izela, here we were fortunate enough to find a deserted farm and we housed ourselves for the night among the clean straw of a barn and I slept easier and more comfortable that night than I have done since I have been ashore.

Sunday 16^th- Up at daybreak and got on the march for the Amatola mountains at which it is said there are concealed 15000 Kafirs in the dense bush which the mountain is covered with, about noon arrived at Perie bush at the foot of the amatolas and camped for the night. Here in this bush was to be the scene of our operations on the morrow, we could already see their camp fires in the thick bush, and hear the cries of children and the yells of the warriors. Next morning up at daybreak struck tents placed them on waggons for instant retreat should they prove too much for us, and went to foot of mountains about 200 yards from bush and ranged ourselves in skirmishing order to watch the bush and prevent the exit of the Kafirs. The operation was carried on by the general himself “ Thesiger” further up on our left was stationed a comp. Of the 90^th on our right a comp. Of the 24^th in fact the mountain was completely surrounded by our soldiers and artillery, Volunteers and Fingoes. About 9.0.a.m. the artillery on other side opened fire shelling the bush in every direction and in about an hour after we were hard at it, lasted 2 hours but Kafirs retreated to the bush again, we retired a short distance to cook our grub and then went back to our former positions for night determined not to let Kafirs escape from bush, but harass them until they surrendered. At night we sent rockets in bush so as to give them no rest next day storming bush again with guns, having several skirmishes during the day, driving the Kafirs over on other side of mountain where they were received with a storm of bullets driving them back to bush again, 8 of our men were killed and 10 horse shot, spies report women and children dying by scores in bush from starvation at daybreak on 19^th retired to have breakfast and returned to our position again, about 9.0.p.m saw large body of Kafirs making towards where there was some fields of indian corn, but we were on the watch as we know they were on the point of starvation, fired several volleys at them driving them back to the bush in confusion.

20^th- Rested all day, going to our positions at night fighting during night, one of our officers shot through mouth, the 3^rd officer killed this last 24 hours fired good many rockets in bush during night. The general think of cutting way to top of mountain, this will take about 3 weeks.

22^nd- Telegram came ordering us aboard at once. We started next morning leaving the soldiers to finish the Kafirs. Arriving at Kings William’s town at noon, we have to remain here for a few days to wait for mail boat to take us to Simons Bay.

25^th- Visited town which is large the house are built in a shaggling fashion, of wood and stone saw 4 Kafirs hung at the prison which is merely a large wooden shed. The streets are not paved so that in wet weather are very dirty after dark all shops shut up so that the streets are dark and miserable at night there being no gas or street lamps and hardly anyone goes about after dark.

28^th Struck going to East London the place where we landed crossed the Buffalo river in Pontoon bridge and pitched camp close to wharves, weather proved too rough to embark.

Sunday 31^st- Bar favourable but surf boatmen would not work today after prayers took a walk on the beach and sit on the rocks, watching the waves dashing against the rocks as they rolled in wave after wave and throwing its spray high in the air. Picked up many curious shells seaweed sponges etc.

 

April

 

1^st- Arose two hours before daybreak loaded boats, and got over bar in safety where we was picked up by a towing tug. Bringing us alongside the Stettin the ship that is to take us to our own in Simons bay. We were soon aboard and of course made ourselves at home at once, we were booked as 2^nd class passengers and we lived first class on fresh bread and meat 3 times per day.

4^th- Anchored at Port Elizabeth (Algoa Bay) from where we had a splendid view of the town built as it is on the slope of a hill, we lay here for a few hours loading wool and skins, and then set sail again and anchored in Simons Bay on the 6^th where lay our ship, who soon had her boat alongside fir us and our luggage when we got alongside of our ship, the band was on deck and struck up the tune of “see the conquering heroes come” and we were welcomed aboard once more.

7^th- How soundly I slept last night in my own hammock it was delightfully easy, no hard corners in it.

8^th- Paid A.S.Money

10^th- Went on 5 days leave to Cape Town.

22^nd-Paid money today settling all accounts while ashore subscription got up for men who died and was killed belonging to our ship, Danae and Fawn also lying here.

May

 

1^st- Got up entertainment ashore for the benefit of the widows and children of those lot in H.M.S. Eurydice who went down in a gale with 320 hands off the isle of Wight, active danae and Fawn took part in the entertainment, realising £100,00 to go to the widows and orphans. Hard at practice for regatta.

8^th- Ball ashore for officers and friends.

10^th- 10.a.m our annual regatta took place. The first race was a sailing match between our cutter and the Fawns, Danes and Floras our cutter winning taking cup and £4.00 the second for £5.00 was also taken by ours, the next race was a pulling match of the gigs of the fleet, Danes gig winning. Pulling race between cutters won by Floras cutter. Stokers race was won by ours, the dingys of the fleet pulled won by our dingy boy. The most amusing race was the copper punts, which are used for cleaning coppers on ship side, they were each manned by 4 men dressed in fantastic costume and armed with shovels to serve as paddles. The race was won by the punt of the Fawn, being the lightest and fastest, while pulling the men sing a sort of song or chant, which is sung by the natives along the coast,

14^th- Sail drill. Boat race between our ship, Flora and Danae, our first took the lead keeping it throughout the race coming in easy winners.

17^th- Quarters, fired 4 rounds from each gun, practice very good hitting target mile and half away almost every time.

24^th- Queens birthday. Dress ship at 8.0.a.m. band played national anthem fired salute of 21 guns at 12 noon.

29^th- The mail came in and soon after we got orders to prepare for sea under sealed orders, there is a rumour that we re going to sea on lock out for 64 Russian Privateers said to be fitted out on America to harass our mercantile marine, it is also said there is a Russian troopship cruising about St Helana, and all these ships are ready to plot on our possessions in Africa.

May

 

3^rd- Landed at dockyard for funeral of Commander Saltford who was drowned a few days ago, the crews and officers of all ships attended our band was also there.

June

 

24^th- Slipped moorings and went out to sea, as we rounded cape point had target practice, and then went on to Table Bay, dropping anchor. On 25^th set sail for Saldanha Bay arriving on 26^th here we are to have 3 days shooting there being plenty of game ashore, officers and a few of the men went ashore every morning returning in the evening with well filled bag. The skipper himself bought off 39 bucks at the end of 3 days. A woman (Dutch) came aboard to have her child vaccinated by our doctor. 30^th set sail again for Table Bay arriving there at 4.0. in the evening.

July

 

1^st- Set sail for Simons Bay we went to target practice while out but sea was too rough we only fired 1 round from starboard broadside. Anchored in Simons Bay at 6.0.p.m. next morning put out to sea again to finish our target practice sea had gone down and we made good firing. Took up our mooring at noon out boats and gave leave.

11^th- General Chelmsford came aboard, while he was aboard fired several rounds from our starboard broadside, the General was highly pleased with our good shooting and smartness of gun crews in coming in to action. We also had fire drill Quarters in a few seconds having about 2 jets of water shooting over ships side. General wondering at quickness with which it was done. A strong rumour is about that we are going to land again as they expect a war with the Zulu’s. On the 24^th manned armed boats for practice. Australian Steamer came in today and we had plenty of visitors from her, chiefly English servant girls going to Australia.

Next part the preparations for the Zulu War,  Peace James