Armoured rifle post during the Boer War

Date1899-1902

Object numberANMS0227[091]

NamePhotograph

MediumSilver gelatin print

DimensionsOverall: 82 x 108 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Robert D McKilliam

Terms

gunports

DescriptionA round building made of corrugated iron featuring a small low entranceway and four visible gunports along the walls. The building is enclosed by a barbed wire fence across the front and is likely located in South Africa. Handwritten on the back is 'Boer War'.HistoryThe second Boer War began in 1899 after the Boer residents and the British once again escalated in South Africa. The war continued until May 1902 and although Britain claimed victory and the Boers became British subjects, it was an uneasy peace and in nine years South Africa would become self-governing.SignificanceThis image is a part of the Captain Robert McKilliam collection. Captain McKilliam worked for the Aberdeen White Star Line for 32 years and sailed aboard such famous clipper ships as SALAMIS and THERMOPYLAE. He moved to Sydney in 1913 where he served as Assistant Wharf Master on Darling Island.