Rorkes Drift

The second (and better known) of the two battles associated with this place is the battle of Rorkes Drift. Fresh from the victory at Isandlwana, a contingent of 3,000-4,000 of the Zulu warriors who had not tasted battle moved to the south to attack the British camp at Rorkes Drift.

The camp consisted mostly of a group of engineers, left in charge of the bridge, and a field hospital. All in all fewer than 100 British soldiers successfully defended the encampment from the onslaught.

Our guide, Dalton, told us of the time between the two battles, the origin of the buildings at Rorkes Drift and finally of the battle itself. How could one help but have been moved?









Once again, Kevin had brought poppies to decorate the memorials of both sides.

Our drive back was slowed considerably by the occurrence of a huge thunder storm accompanied by hail ranging up to marble-size. It was an adventure, but Kevin got us home safely with the aid of Angie's navigation.

Wherever you are today, I hope you've been moved by something!

Don Bergquist – 15 November 2007 – Ballito, South Africa