Exploring the Battlefields of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein

South Africa’s rich and tumultuous history is dotted with numerous Battlefields that have played pivotal roles in shaping the nation’s narrative. Among these, the Battlefields of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein stand out as significant sites from the Anglo-Boer War, offering insights into the strategies, struggles, and sacrifices of those involved.


On Saturday 13 July 2024, a group of Gunners from the Gunners’ Association got together to explore the Battlefields of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein. The day started with a warm welcome at the local Wimpy in Potchefstroom over a cup of coffee, our general meet up point, after a short briefing we commenced with the day’s proceedings.


There were nine cars with 28 Gunners and family members, from four Gunners’ Association branches in the convoy with Gunner Gerhard Jacobs leading the way as he was our tour leader for the day, being a keen Battlefield enthusiast. Gunner Dirk Bloem took up the rear to ensure that all cars stayed in the convoy, and no-one got left behind.


We arrived at the Battlefield of Frederickstadt which is situated on two Farms, Stompoorfontein en Gerhard Minnebron Farms, close to Potchefstroom. There we were told interesting stories and saw sites where the British had their artillery. The Elswick Gun was one of the gun positions that we visited.


For more information on the two Farms, please visit: https://ruralexploration.co.za/Gerhard%20Minnebron.html
https://monument-sa.co.za/slag-van-frederikstad-20-25-okt-1900-potchefstroom-distrik/

Piece of shrapnel from the Elswick Gun found at the Battlefield of Frederickstadt.
The Elswick Battery on the front is shown in the image on the right.

The Gunners listening intently to Gunner Gerhard.
The Battle of Frederickstadt, fought in October 1900, was part of the larger Second Anglo-Boer War, which raged from 1899 to 1902. Located near the town of Potchefstroom in the North West Province, Frederickstadt became a focal point for British and Boer forces.
We were also shown where there were various pom-pom sites of the British artillery.
The Battle began on October 25, 1900, with Boer forces under the command of General Christiaan de Wet launching an attack on the British garrison stationed at Frederickstadt. The Boers utilized their knowledge of the terrain and guerrilla warfare tactics to their advantage, managing to surprise the British troops.
Despite the initial success of the Boer attack, the British, commanded by Major-General Archibald Hunter, managed to hold their ground. The British forces, although outnumbered and initially taken aback, were better equipped and eventually repelled the Boer assault after several days of fierce fighting.
The Battle did not result in a decisive victory for either side, but it underscored the resilience and resourcefulness of the Boer fighters. For the British, the Battle was a reminder of the challenges posed by the Boer commandos and the difficulties of maintaining control over the vast South African landscape.
Gunner Gerhard told us that during this time, the Boers attempted to damage the railway line and the water supply in order to cripple the advancements of the British troops. However, this did not have any real impact.

From here we proceeded back to our vehicles and left for the Battlefield in Tygerfontein. The Battlefield of Tygerfontein is situated on a farm to the south-east of Potchefstroom approximately 30kms away. Once we arrived, we all gathered, and Gunner Gerhard gave us a quick briefing. We also met the owner of the farm, Arthur Knox. Gunner Gerhard pointed out the Gun positions on the Battlefield, this was strenuous walk, but enjoyable nonetheless.
On our return we moved down to the Braai area and spent the rest of the afternoon reminiscing about the history and camaraderie that played out during these historic Battles.

The Battle of Tygerfontein, though lesser-known, was another significant encounter during the Anglo-Boer War. Fought in December 1901, Tygerfontein is situated in the Free State Province, near the town of Lindley.
By late 1901, the war had shifted largely to guerrilla warfare, with Boer commandos conducting hit-and-run attacks on British positions. The British sought to counter these tactics by establishing blockhouses and conducting sweeping operations to capture Boer fighters.
The Battle at Tygerfontein saw British forces, led by Colonel Herbert Plumer, clashing with Boer commandos under the leadership of General Koos de la Rey. The Boers, using their familiarity with the terrain, set up ambushes and engaged in skirmishes to disrupt British movements.
The fighting at Tygerfontein was characterized by its fluidity, with both sides maneuvering for advantageous positions. The Boers aimed to inflict maximum damage and evade capture, while the British sought to encircle and crush the Boer resistance.
While the British managed to push the Boers back, they could not deliver a decisive blow to de la Rey’s forces. The Battle exemplified the challenges faced by the British in combating the highly mobile and adaptive Boer commandos. For the Boers, the engagement at Tygerfontein was a testament to their enduring resistance against a better-equipped foe.

Picture of the Battlefield taken towards the British positions in Tygerfontein


Today, the Battlefields of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein serve as poignant reminders of the Anglo-Boer War’s complexity and the enduring spirit of those who fought. These sites offer valuable opportunities for historical reflection and education.
Visitors to these Battlefields can explore remnants of the past, including memorials, gravesites, and interpretive displays that provide context and commemorate the sacrifices made. The Battles of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein, while part of a larger and often tragic conflict, highlight the resilience, strategy, and tenacity that defined this period in South African history.
The Battlefields of Frederickstadt and Tygerfontein are more than mere historical sites; they are testaments to the human spirit’s resilience and the intricate tapestry of South Africa’s past. Through exploring these locations, one gains a deeper understanding of the complexities of the Anglo-Boer War and the enduring legacy it has left on the nation’s landscape and collective memory.
The day was enjoyed by everyone and will long be remembered. Below are some of the snippets from messages sent after the day’s proceedings.
Dominic, thank you for a great day. Gerhard’s energy and passion for the history was a highlight, and the boerie a perfect way to end the day. Thank you. Renier and Magda – Renier Henning
Thank you Dominic and Gerhard for a great day. It was most interesting and insightful. Good to see old friends again as well. – Clive Wilsworth
There’s a big difference between studying Battles in a classroom, poring over maps, and actually being at a site where one is afforded the opportunity to take in all the elements of the situation- the cogency of command and control is pivotal to success or failure. Thanks to everyone who contributed to making today very special, and enjoyable. – Collin Hyman
Collin Hyman provided the following interesting information after the day:
A question was raised yesterday about range- finding. Above is how it was done. My illustration is the basic trig involved. The Mekometer ( mentioned above) obviously accommodated the said trig.

    British 4.7in naval gun- used at during the Battle of Fredericksstad

The Boers used Krupps guns at Fredericksstad. This is the data for 75mm gun.The Boers also had access to a 120 mm Krupps.

De Wet also deployed the Maxim Machine Gun at Fredericksstad. Better known as the ‘Pom-Pom.’