The Zulu War: Rorke’s Drift.

Our speaker, retired Regimental Sergeant-Major Bill Cainan resplendent in period uniform of the 24th [the 2nd Warwickshire] Regiment of Foot Brecon displayed for us their rifle, a Martini-Henry capable of firing 12 bullets a minute , with 2ft bayonet, and the Zulu’s Assegai {short stabbing spear} Knobkerrie {club} and cowhide shield.

In 1879 the Zulus obstructed expansion, so authorised by the Governor but not { for financial reasons} the Government , Lieutenant –General Thessinger had 42 days to subdue 50k armed Zulus with the total S/African 5k redcoats.

100 redcoats were stranded at Rorke’s Drift as their oxen were needed elsewhere. Following 6 hours fierce fighting since 4 30pm ,and killing 1500 Zulus after a full frontal charge, hand to hand combat with bayonetted rifle against inferior Assegai, and many volleys into the dark night the Zulus retreated exhausted , in ignorance that only 600 bullets remained!

Despite 144 errors in the film “Zulu” , it correctly recorded the award of 11 VC’s.

Our next meeting is on 18th November 7.30pm Church Hall Bidford ,”Bess of Hardwick and Hardwick Hall “with Dr Gillian White.

CHRISTOPHER SMITH