Desmond Latham

The History of South Africa podcast, episode 157.

In the annals of South African history, few tales capture the imagination quite like the daring journey of Dick King and Ndongeni Ka Xoki. This episode of our history not only showcases the rugged terrain and challenges of early 19th-century South Africa but also highlights the complexities of human relationships during a period of intense conflict and change. The journey of King from Durban to Grahamstown in 1842, and Ka Xoki from Durban to Buntingville is a testament to courage, endurance, and the spirit of an era that shaped the future of the region.

The Departure from Durban

Our story begins in the midst of a besieged Durban, with British forces encircled by Boers, signaling a dire need for assistance. Dick King, a young adventurer and an elephant hunter by trade, and Ndongeni Ka Xoki, a man of immense bravery and skill, embarked on a perilous journey. Tasked with delivering a dispatch from Captain Smith to Lieutenant Governor Colonel Hare in Grahamstown, they slipped away into the night, embarking on a thousand-kilometre trek that would test the limits of human endurance.

The Ride of Dick King and Ndongeni Ka Xoki

Averaging 100 kilometres a day on horseback, King and Ka Xoki’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. King, known by his Zulu nickname Mlamulankunzi, meaning “peacemaker among bulls,” and Ka Xoki, exhibited a remarkable partnership. Their ride was fraught with dangers, from crossing 180 rivers to evading hostile forces, showcasing their exceptional skills as riders and swimmers. Despite the physical toll, including severe fatigue and chafing that forced Ka Xoki to stop at Buntingville, their determination remained unshaken.

The Response from British Troops

Upon King’s arrival in Grahamstown, the dispatch was delivered to Colonel Hare, setting in motion a series of events that would alter the course of the siege. The British, previously on the brink of defeat, were now infused with a renewed sense of hope. The arrival of reinforcements, cleverly concealed aboard the schooner Conch, marked a turning point in the conflict. Captain Durnford’s Grenadiers, along with the imposing presence of the warship Southhampton, shifted the balance of power in favor of the British.

Clashes and the Siege’s End

The British forces, now bolstered by reinforcements and the strategic prowess of Lieutenant Colonel Josias Cloete, launched a decisive assault on the Boer positions. The ensuing battle saw the Boers retreat, faced with the overwhelming might of the British military. Cloete’s approach, combining military action with strategic diplomacy, eventually led to peace negotiations. The terms of peace, while controversial, allowed for a resolution that avoided further bloodshed, granting amnesty to the Boers but asserting British dominance in the region.

Negotiations and Aftermath

The peace negotiations underscored the complexities of colonial dynamics and the interplay of power, loyalty, and survival. The agreement allowed for a semblance of coexistence, albeit under the shadow of British rule. This period also highlighted the shifting allegiances and the role of indigenous communities, who found themselves navigating the turbulent waters of colonial conflicts.

Legacy and Reflection

The epic journey of Dick King and Ndongeni Ka Xoki transcends its immediate impact on the siege of Durban. It symbolizes the resilience and courage of individuals facing seemingly insurmountable odds. The omission of Ndongeni Ka Xoki from many historical accounts and memorials speaks to the broader issues of recognition and the narratives that shape our understanding of history. The Dick King statue in Durban, while a tribute to one man’s heroism, also serves as a reminder of the stories untold and the contributions overlooked.

As we reflect on this chapter of South African history, we are reminded of the enduring spirit of its people, the complexity of its social fabric, and the lessons that resonate through time. The tale of Dick King and Ndongeni Ka Xoki, while rooted in the past, continues to inspire and inform the present, offering insights into courage, partnership, and the relentless pursuit of peace amidst turmoil.

Engaging with Our Past

The history of South Africa is rich with stories of bravery, struggle, and transformation. As we delve into these tales, we gain a deeper appreciation for the diverse narratives that have shaped this nation. I encourage you, the readers, to engage with our past, to explore the stories of those who have walked this land before us, and to reflect on the lessons they offer. In doing so, we honor their memory and continue the journey towards understanding and reconciliation.

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The Strategic Acumen of Lieutenant Colonel Josias Cloete

In the midst of the conflict that gripped the Port Natal region, the arrival of Lieutenant Colonel Josias Cloete, a figure of profound strategic insight and military expertise, marked a decisive turning point. Born in the Cape but educated in Holland, Cloete was not only a seasoned veteran of the British Army, having served in India and against the amaXhosa during the Sixth Frontier War, but also a man deeply connected to the land and its people. His unique background made him a formidable opponent against the Boers and an unexpected ally to many in the region.

The Arrival of the 27th Regiment

The 27th Regiment, an embodiment of British military might, arrived in Durban aboard the warship Southampton. This 50-cannon behemoth was not just a show of force; it was a clear message to the Boers that the British were not to be underestimated. The regiment, under Cloete’s command, was a mix of seasoned soldiers ready to assert British authority and bring an end to the siege that had beleaguered the British fort.

As the Southampton sailed closer to shore, positioning itself strategically near the infamous Durban Sandbar, it unleashed a broadside assault that would forever change the dynamics of the conflict. This action was not merely a military maneuver but a psychological blow to the Boers, who had underestimated the resolve and resources of the British.

Cloete’s Strategic Foresight

Cloete’s approach to the conflict was characterized by a blend of military precision and diplomatic tact. Understanding the complexities of the situation, he sought not just to defeat the Boers but to secure a lasting peace that would stabilize the region.

Then by engaging with the local amaZulu as allies and leveraging their desire for retribution against the Boers, Cloete used local dynamics to his advantage.

The Impact of Cloete and the 27th Regiment’s Arrival

The arrival of Cloete and the 27th Regiment not only broke the siege but also reshaped the political landscape of the region. The terms negotiated by Cloete ensured a fragile peace, one that acknowledged the complexities of colonial rule and the diverse aspirations of the region’s inhabitants.

Conclusion

The strategic leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Josias Cloete and the decisive arrival of the 27th Regiment were pivotal in ending the siege of Durban and establishing a new phase of British rule in South Africa. Their actions not only demonstrated military prowess but also highlighted the importance of diplomacy and strategic foresight in navigating the challenges of colonial governance. The legacy of this period, marked by conflict and negotiation, continues to influence the historical narrative of South Africa, reminding us of the intricate tapestry of events that have shaped its course.