Dundee Involvement in the South African War (1899-1902)

Black Watch Volunteers Return from South African War

Article from the Dundee Year Book of 1901.

After an absence of about 15 months the Black Watch Active Service Volunteers arrived home from South Africa on Friday 17th May and were accorded a magnificent reception in the respective districts to which they belonged. By a happy coincidence the pleasing termination to their voluntary service and sacrifices in the interests of their country and King fell on the anniversary of one of the most thrilling and historic inci­dents of the war—the relief of Mafeking. Arriving at Southampton on Thursday, 16th May, the volunteers entrained on the afternoon of that day tor Scotland, and arrived at Carlisle tit daybreak on Friday. After a short stay the journey was resumed by the Waverley route to Edin­burgh, which was reached in the early morning. In the Capital a stoppage of about half an hour was made for breakfast, and at 7.59 a start was made for Perth, the head­quarters of the regiment. Following is an account of the remarkable manner in which Perth and Dundee welcomed back their gallant sons and citizens. The enthusiasm evoked at sight of the sun-tanned soldiers was not confined to any class. Rich and poor stood side by side in the streets, and greeted, in numberless cases with glistening eyes, the little war-worn company in khaki. At Perth the scene was overpowering in the intensity of the feeling aroused; in Dundee the spectacle of the welcome home was one which must ever remain in the memory of the thousands of spectators.

THE ARRIVAL AT PERTH.

OFFICIAL WELCOME AND LUNCHEON.

Perth gave the volunteers a thoroughly en­thusiastic welcome home. If the city was not looking its fairest, this was owing to the rather dull and threatening weather; but fortunately the gusts which marked the whole proceedings was not detracted from by anything worse than a slight drizzling rain, which fell during tile procession from the station to the King's Barracks. The route of march was decorated at numerous points, large flags and banners being here and there displayed, interspersed with many bright pieces of bunting. In various other parts of the city flags
Also flew and the banners waved in token of welcome. Inside the General Station, immediately above the platform on which the home-coming volun­teers, were to alight, a profusion of flags was sus­pended, while the station buildings and the hotel outside were pleasingly brightened up with similar emblems of the popular joy. The Lord Provost, Magistrates, members of the Town Council, officers of the various volunteer bat­talions, members of the Society of High Constables, clergymen, and prominent citizens of Perth assembled on the platform. Among those viewing the scone from the opposite side of the station was the Duke of Atholl, Lord-Lieutenant of the county. An hour before the time the special train carrying the men was due to arrive great numbers of the general public had taken up position round the barricades, and on all points of vantage overlooking the gates through which the volunteers would emerge. As the time passed

THE SCENE AT THE STATION

became momentarily more animated, and about nine o'clock—a quarter of an hour before the special was due—there was much bustle and ex­citement. Punctually the train steamed up to the platform amid loud cheering. Every window of the carriages facing the platform was filled with sun-browned volunteers, many of whom were quickly recognised. In less time than it takes to describe, the train had pulled up at the platform, doors were thrown open, the men had stepped down, and greetings were being eagerly exchanged on all hands. The tall figure of Captain Millar was prominent, and for a short space he and his men had a busy time receiving the welcome and congratulations of friends. Ad­ditional animation was imparted to the pleasing and lively scene by the music discoursed by se­veral pipers. The temporary exchange of greet­ings having been concluded, the Lord Provost, Magistrates, Councillors, officers, and others passed out to the reserved space, where the de­tachments of the local volunteers were in readi­ness to receive their comrades home from the front. When Captain Millar appeared at the gateway he was at once recognised by the crowd, and a loud cheer was raised. As the other men quickly followed him, now wearing their great­coats wrapped round their bandoliers, the cheer­ing was practically continuous from this point all along the route of march to the barracks. The display of flags and bunting was greatly enhanced' in effectiveness by the numerous trophies waved by people in the crowd, not to speak of the waving of hats and handkerchiefs. The light, colour, and anima­tion of the scene were deeply impressive, and appeared to afford the objects of the honour very great satisfaction. All along the route the streets were crowded, and every window and place of vantage were occupied by persons who vigorously waved small flags or handkerchiefs. On the street recognitions were frequent as the men passed, and "soft eyes looked love to eyes which spake again."

The order of procession was as Follows: —
Police
Bugle Band of 4th V.B.R.H.
Detachment of 4th V.B.R.H.
Cyclist Corps,
Pipers,
Detachment of 5th V.B.R.H.
High Constables,
Town Officers.
Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council.
Public Officials.
Pipe Band of the 4th V.B.R.H.
Brass Band of the 4th V.B.R.H.
THE ACTIVE SERVICE SECTION.
Volunteer Officers.
General Public.

THE OFFICIAL WELCOME.

The route was by way of King's Place, up King Street, into South Methven Street, on through North Methven Street, round into Atholl Street, and on to the Barracks. Marching at a brisk pace, the procession soon arrived in the square, and the men were drawn up under the command of Captain Millar to receive at the hands of Lord Provost Macgregor, in the name of the citizens, an official welcome home. Previous to that, however, they received a great ovation from the men of the depot, who are proud of the record of the volunteers who have been associated with the regulars as comrades-in-arms. It was only when his Lordship, ac­companied by the Magistrates, Councillors, and others advanced to perform the pleasing little ceremony that the cheering of the people and the strains of the martial music begun by the bands when the volunteers emerged from the Railway Station ceased. Thereupon the Lord Provost stepped forward, and gave utterance to the following felicitous little speech, the volunteers standing at “attention'' — Captain Millar, officers, and men of the Black Watch Volunteers. He said, we offer you a hundred thousand welcomes. (Ap­plause.) You have seen and experienced the enthusiasm and warmth of the welcome of the citizens of Perth, from the oldest to the youngest, in your triumphal march through the streets and cheering crowds. That is but a faint echo of the glorious welcome which all men offer you, returning from your arduous duties at the seat of war. We hail you as men worthy to bear the honourable name of the historic Black Watch, (Hear, hear, and applause.) You are the gallant boys of the young brigade. You have shown that the services of the nation are not centred upon a reed, a weak and insuffi­cient thing, but you have shown that you are men worthy to take your place in the front rank of the nation's service, and you have proved yourselves ready to spend and to be spent in the honour of the service of your King and country. (Applause.) I, in the name of the of the citizens of Perth, in name of all the friends which you have throughout this country, in the name of all patriotic men and all fair and loyal women, bid you welcome. We regard you with the greatest pride and interest on return­ing home from the war. (Loud applause.) We will not detain you now. We shall have the honour and opportunity of offering you in a representative manner a few hours hence our warm welcome and seek to place upon your heads laurels as men worthy of our esteem, honour, and regard. We welcome you to peace and rest and love. (Loud applause.)
The Lord Provost then called for cheers for the men, and this was responded to with great enthusiasm.

APPRECIATION OF HONOUR.

Captain Millar's reply was equally happy. He said: — Lord Provost and gentlemen, on behalf of the Volunteer Services Company I would like to express our sincere thanks for the great honour and the great kindness which you have done us in coming to meet us at the station. I have to thank you, sir, very much for my brother volunteers for the kind, appreciative way in which you have spoken of us, and I would request you in their name to convey our humble thanks to the City of Perth, and to you, sir, as its representative, for the welcome you have given us. The closing words of the popular Captain's reply was the signal for cheers, renewed several times in the midst of which the men proceeded to the gymnasium, where they afterwards par­took of breakfast. Crowds hung around  the Barrack gates,  watching as far as opportunity offered the movements of the volunteers, while others, after viewing the decorated streets, be­took themselves to their respective duties, work being resumed as usual after the breakfast hour.

MARCH TO THE CITY HALL

Shortly after midday the scene of enthusiasm were renewed when the men, headed by a small draft of police and the pipe band, started from the Barracks to the City Hall, where a short Divine service was to be conducted, and where they were to be entertained to luncheon. Hav­ing in the interval enjoyed much-needed ablu­tions, the lads in khaki now looked smart and fit, and with elastic step moved on, five or six deep, among the admiring crowds. By this time, too the weather had brightened, the sun shining out cheeringly. Greeted out-side the hall with the motto, "Wel­come Home," in bold letters, the men on entering feasted their eyes on a very pleasing scene. Handsomely   laid-out tables occupied the area, and these were effectively de­corated with flowers and plants. The platform was artistically adorned with large pot plants, draught, screens, and busts, including a very fine head of Her Majesty Queen Alexandra. Above the platform was stretched a large scroll bearing in bold lettering the words so dear to the heart of every member of the regiment, “Floreat Black Watch.” Beneath the Royal arms bearing a medallion of the late lamented Queen, and fronting the platform, were the words, “May her memory inspire us to noble deeds.” Other mottos displayed were “Each of them doing their country’s work” and “Deeds are fruits; words are but leaves.” The gallery pillars were draped in various shades, whilst the pillars extending above the gallery were trophied with flags and bannerettes. Strings of Chinese lanterns swung from the four corners of the gallery were caught up together in the centre of the hall – the whole combining to form a very beautiful interior.

THE COMPANY

Among those who accepted invitations to be present were the following: -
Volunteer officers – 1st Battalion – Hon Colonel Lord Provost Hunter, Colonel Hill, Captain D.A. Watson, Captain T.M. Cappon, Captain R.A. Robertson, 2nd Lieutenants A.K. Watson, J.B. Moir, and R. Lamb; 2nd Battalion – Colonel W.A. Gordon, Lieutenant Colonel J. Duke, Majors D. Duke and D. Lamb, Captains D.A. Spence, A. Whyte and R.R. Balfour, Lieutenants R.C.H. Millar, W.D. Johnstone, T.M. Guthrie and Ralston; 3rd Battalion – Colonel W. Smith, Major S.S. Macdonald, Captain and Adjutant F. Abbot Anderson, Captains P. Nicoll and D. Milne, Lieutenants J. Cruickshank, T. Tosh, J. Wylie, and D. Wylie, 2nd Lieutenants S. Smith, A. Watt and R. Low, Lieutenant and Quartermaster A. Elliot. 4th Battalion – Majors D.C. Campbell and R. McNaughton, Captains C.E. Colville, T. Dempster, P.M. Dewar, J.G. Millar and G. Rorie, Lieutenants H.J. Bell, A.H.J. Heiton, M.W. Gloag, C.E. Mathieson, Surgeon-Captain R. Stirling, Rev D.G. Manual (Chaplain), and Captain T. Saunderson; 5th Battalion – Major W.S. Ferguson, Captains J. Baxter, G.J. Haynes, J. Marshall, A.B.M. Grahame, J. Scott, A. Proctor and W. J. Smith. Lieutenants C. Boyd, T. Ferguson and R. Robertson. Surgeon Captain E.L. Paton, Lieutenant and Quartermaster T. Young, Revs T.R. McDonald and J. S. McKenzie (Chaplains); 6th Battalion – Colonel Erskine, Lieutenant-Colonel Sir Ralph Anstruther, Bart.; Majors A.R. Shearer and A.R. Burt, Captains J.H. Robertson, Ferguson, Henderson and J. Lumsden, Lieutenants D. Romanes, T.J. Robertson, Whyte, Beveridge and Hendry, Surgeon Captain C.E. Douglas.
General Public – Lord Provost Macgregor, Dean of Guild Chalmers, Bailies Wood and Brand, Councillors Wright, Ritchie, Glass, Watson, A.T. Mackay, H. Mackay, Wallace, Fenwick and Grieve, Mr Rufus D. Pullar, Mr John Thomas, Mr D.J. Wilson, Mr Andrew Hutcheson, Beechwood; Mr A. Macduff, Bonhard; Mr James Ramsay, Balhousie Castle; Mr R. Morison, Mr W.A. Barclay, Savings Bank; Revs D.W. Kennedy, W.M. Main, P.R. Landreth, Dodds, Boyd, F.H. Martin, D. Oswald; Mr John Begg, Town Clerk; Mr Turpie, Depute Town Clerk; Mr H. Douglas, Town Clerk’s office; Mr J. Masterson, Mr James Robertson, solicitor; Mr Duncan Cram, solicitor; Mr R.A. Hay, Stationer; Mr James McEwan, Major McEwan, Mr Moon, C.E.; Mr A. Davidson, Water Manager; Mr P. Girrity, contractor; Mr R. Henderson, Hillyland; Mr E. Jackson, solicitor; Mr Andrew Moir, ex-Bailie McNicoll, Mr D. McNab, solicitor; Mr John A. Robertson, solicitor; Mr R. McDonlad, firemaster; Mr John Lambert, Burgh Electrical Engineer; Mr A.K. Bell, Mr R. McKillop, Burgh Surveyor; Mr P. Leitham, Mr G.P.R. Young, architect; Mr R. Keay, City Chamberlain; Captain Milburne, Mr Fairley, Mr Martin, brewer; Mr A. Buttar, Mr H. Leslie, Dr Taylor, Dr Norwell, Mr James Garrow, Chief Constable; Dr Carruthers, Mr G.H. Strafford, Inland Revenue; Mr Thomas Moncrieff, Mr F.S. Graves, Mr H. Jamieson, solicitor; Mr J. Beady, Mr G. Muirhead, Mr D.M. Stuart, merchant; Mr James Hay, Mr James McLeish, Mr A. Douglas, Lawrie, &c.

DIVINE SERVICE.

Before luncheon was partaken of, a short divine service was conducted by Rev D.G. Manuel, Acting Chaplain of the 4th V.B.R.H., assisted by Rev R. Oswald, chaplain of the Artillery. Opening with the singing of the hymn, “Now thank we all our God,” the service was continued by Rev Mr Manuel, who offered up an appropriate and impressive prayer. Thereafter the Company joined in singing the hymn “Lord, while for all mankind we pray,” after which the benediction was pronounced by Rev Mr Oswald. Mr Graves presided at the organ, and a special choir led the praise.

AFTER LUNCHEON

Lord Provost Macgregor presided, and after luncheon intimated that apologies for absence had been received from the Marquis of Breadalbane, the Earl of Mansfield, the Earl of Kinnoul, Sir Robert D. Moncrieffe, Bart., Colonel Brickenden, Colonel Johnstone, Fife V.A.; Colonel Cautley, R.A.; Colonel Monro, Aberfeldy; Councillor Macpherson &c. Thereafter in appropriate and loyal sentiments he gave the toast of “The King and Her Majesty, Queen Alexandria,” which was responded to with even more than usual enthusiasm. In rising to propose the toast of “The Service Company,” he said it was the toast of the day – of that merry May day, a joyous day, a day to be marked for ever with a white stone in the annals of the Fair City – the day of the return of the service volunteers from the war. (Applause) No more interesting or instructive sight could be viewed than those men seated among them, partaking of their hospitality, and receiving their grateful congratulations for the noble service they had rendered in the field. They looked upon their worn and bronzed features, and beheld there reflected a picture of the hardships, the privations, and labours, and toils, and dangers which they had endured during the past twelve months, and they had received the honour which they had a right to expect from every noble and patriotic heart. (Applause). What a contrast it was with that day that they left these shores. Then there was a gloom and cloud impending over the defence of the Empire, but there was never fear nor doubt in any good or honest heart, least of all was there any doubt as to the prosperity which would attend their arms. Now they had returned practically at the same strength at which they had gone forth, and they received them with open arms. (Applause) No lust of conquest animated them, and their hands were clean and their hearts were pure when they returned. They had sustained a great name, the glory and the honour of the Black Watch, and they had upheld the prowess of their country. This war had brought out the fibre and the stamina of the youth of the country, and it had shown that they had a reserve among these men, upon which they could draw in the hour of need, and stand face to face with any foe or combination of foes in the world (Applause) It was a proud day in the history of the City of Perth, and it was the proudest day in his term of office as Lord Provost. (Applause) They hailed the volunteers with acclimation. But in their hour of gladness let them remember that some had been left behind. These men had their sympathy, and they could not forget the noble soldiers of the King and the many volunteers who were still upholding the honour and glory of the Empire in South Africa. (Applause) He coupled the toast with the name of Captain Miller, the gallant officer who had led the volunteers to victory. (Applause.)

CAPTAIN MILLER’S REPLY

Captain Miller who had a great reception being unable to proceed for several minutes, in acknowledging the toast, remarked that he could truthfully say that all ranks of the company had acted together as one man, and he was sure that he could count upon their being unanimous in expressing their gratitude to the Lord Provost, Magistrates and Town Council of the Fair City and the Committee who had entertained them that day. (Applause.)
He wished to mention that 14 of their company had remained behind in the colony, either in civil or military employment. He was unable to forget that of those to whom they had bade farewell 15 months ago, eight, he was sorry to say had not returned. They had been laid to rest in South Africa. They must all sorrow with their comrades’ bereaved relatives. Yet, while they shared in their sorrow, they shared also in the legacy that they had left behind them, the treasure of an undying remembrance that these comrades laid down their young lives willingly in the service of their Sovereign and of their Country. (Applause.) When the Volunteer Service Company joined the line regiment at Bloemfontein about the middle of April last year the regiment had suffered very severely in casualties in the fight at Paardeberg, and the strength had been reduced by something between 400 and 500 men. The Volunteer Service Company had drafts and details of the regiment numbering about 250, and the 115 of their company brought up the reinforcements to about 370 men. It must be gratifying to the Black Watch and to the pride of Scotland that their Highland Regiments would not suffer or be reduced in the face of any foe longer than would suffice to assemble whatever number of volunteers might be required to bring the regiment to its full compliment. (Applause.) They had the pleasure of meeting the relieving company at De Aar Junction, and he was glad to find that every one of them was in the very best of health and spirits. In concluding, Captain Miller remarked that they had had the privilege and honour of serving in the field with the gallant line regiment, the Black Watch – (applause) – and were spared to return to hear from the lips of the Lord Provost of Perth that they had gained the approbation of the citizens, which to every one of them must be a source of life-long satisfaction, enhanced by the grateful recollection that before they had tried the citizens were good enough to repose confidence in them. (Loud Applause.)
Mr Macduff, Bonhard, proposed “The Chairman.” At intervals between the toasts songs were rendered by Private R.M. Baxter, of the City Rifles; Private Kelly, of the Dundee Highlanders (both active service men), and Lieutenant Steuart, of the 5th V.B.R.H. The proceedings concluded with cheers for His Majesty the King.

DEPARTURE FOR DUNDEE

The volunteers afterwards returned to the Barracks, and the scenes of enthusiasm were again renewed in the streets. At the Barracks a brief rest was enjoyed, but shortly after five o’clock the Dundee contingent marched to the Station Hotel, where, by the kindness of Lord Provost Hunter, they were hospitably entertained at tea. By permission of the officers, a copy of the Pink Edition of the “Evening Telegraph,” containing a very full and interesting report of the day’s proceedings up to that point, was handed to each of the men. About half past six the volunteers were formed up, and, headed by a couple of pipers, were escorted by another large and eager crowd to the Dundee Platform. While they were being entrained the scene momentarily increased in animation, and the greatest good-humour prevailed. Amid resounding cheers and the stirring music rendered by the two pipers the train steamed slowly away at five minutes before seven o’clock, and, on passing the streets and dwellings, was energetically saluted by groups of persons assembled wherever a good view could be obtained. Speed was quickly put on, and, as there was no halt until Magdalen Green Station was reached, there was no opportunity for much demonstration by the way. At Invergowrie, however, and at various other points by the way, people who had gathered in small groups, and even single individuals, were observed enthusiastically waving hat or handkerchief as the train rushed by. To the accompaniment of the cheering of a vast crowd the train drew up at Magdalen Green Station at 7.18.

The return to Dundee of the small band of its elected citizens who during fifteen months had been doing battle valiantly for their country in South Africa was celebrated by a great and memorable demonstration. The proceedings attending their reception by the populace of Dundee took place on an historic day. Exactly twelve months before there was accomplished in South Africa that which relieved the Empire from tension for a parallel to which one has to go back to Indian Mutiny days – the relief of Mafeking. Great as were the crowds and hearty as were the tokens of goodwill imparted to the send-off accorded to the volunteers when leaving the city, they fell far short of the jubilation, tempered through it was by the

ANXIOUS SADNESS

Of more than one gap in the ranks, with which the civic welcome home was invested. Early in the evening there began westward a constant stream of the city population to catch at the Magdalen Green Station, where they detrained from Perth, a first glimpse of the active service men. All classes of the community joined in the rush for laces. And there was need for haste if a good place was to be secured. A full hour before the train was timed to arrive there were thousands on the green, clustering in masses around the precincts of the station, from which all but passengers and those whom duty called to be present were zealously excluded. The entrance was kept clear by a strong cordon of police, mounted and on foot. The railway officials took advantage of the occasion to extend their tribute of welcome. The premises were as gay as bunting could make them. Above the gateway was hung the inscription “Welcome,” over which was stretched a large Scottish Standard. As time wore on the crowds increased on the Green. In villadom beyond every window was packed with interested spectators. Some short time before the train was timed to arrive the Lord Provost, Magistrates, and Town Council drove up to the station. Lord Provost Hunter was accompanied by Mrs Hunter, Miss Hunter, and Sir Thomas Thornton, the Town Clerk. Then came the Magistrates in their robes of office and the members of Town Council, those present being Bailies Urquhart, Melville, Crichton, and Allan, Lord Dean of Guild Bell, Councillors Doig, Mathers, McKinnon, Nairn, Martin, High, Langlands, Quirk, Macaulay, and Robertson. At last

THE TRAIN CAME STEAMING SLOWLY ROUND

The curve to the west of the station, it passed over clusters of detonators, amid the reports of which and the cheering of the spectators it drew up at the platform. The volunteers, accommodated in one of the front carriages, were received by Lord Provost Hunter, who welcomed them to the city. Under the direction of their officers they fell in on the east end of the platform. In full public view, they came in for a great ovation. The vast crowd cheered wildly, thousands of mill lassies broke out into the vociferous singing of “Soldiers of the Queen,” many of them accompanying the refrain by the waving of improvised flags of brightly coloured material. Then there was an awkward pause. Some little delay occurred in forming up the order of procession, but the crowd made good use of the time in shouting friendly greetings to the lads in khaki, and the officers were afforded an opportunity of exchanging greetings with their friends. At length the volunteers were accommodated in the vehicles in waiting for them, and to the accompaniment of deafening cheers the procession began its march citywards.

The Procession
Through Cheering Crowds  

Outside the station processional order was formed. The mounted police led the van, followed by the 1st F.V.A., the Lord Provost and Magistrates, 1st V.B.R.H., cyclists, and active service section in the order named, the rear being brought up by the 3rd V.B.R.H., Then to the stirring strains of the bands, varied at intervals by the shrill tones of the pipes, the triumphal march began. At Magdalen Green thousands upon thousands had assembled to greet the returning heroes. From the house windows flags fluttered gaily in the evening breeze, and curious heads, anxious to witness a scene so memorable, protruded from every aperture whence a favourable view of the proceedings could be obtained. The roofs, and adjacent fences, and every vantage ground were monopolised, while the ubiquitous small-boy perched on treetop or lamppost was everywhere in evidence. “See the conquering Hero Comes” appropriately enough heralded to the waiting multitudes the approach of the active service section, and as the bronzed faced, khaki-clad warriors made their appearance outside the station a mighty cheer burst from thousands of throats. The echo was taken up by those further removed from the immediate vicinity of the carriages, and soon it swelled into one continuous and unceasing roar, now subsiding a little, and anon breaking forth with renewed intensity. Progress was necessarily slow, the density of the crowd at various points of the route demanding the greatest caution on the part of the authorities if accidents were to be avoided. Never in its history has the Esplanade presented such an appearance as it did. The scene was indescribable. From one end to the other the roadway was packed with a seething mass of humanity. The police were powerless. With measured pace the procession forced a passage to the accompaniment of rousing cheers and shrill blasts from the engines on the adjacent sidings of the North British Railway. Turning up South Union Street was en fete, and the fortunate possessors of suitable windows must have reaped a rich harvest. On High Street and in Reform Street also the enthusiasm was unbounded, hearty greetings being exchanged between the volunteers and their friends. Altogether the gathering was a most remarkable one in many respects, a conspicuous feature being the orderliness and good humour of the crowd. The decorations were not what might be termed lavish, but any laxity in this respect on the part of the business community was amply atoned for by the displays on bunting from the private residences of the citizens. At Craig Pier an interesting spectacle was witnessed. Over the office of the Tay Ferries floated a majestic Scottish Standard, and beneath it, battered and torn, was a crumpled Transvaal flag.

Congratulations by Lord Provost at Drill Hall Ceremony.

It was at the Drill Hall that the last, and perhaps the most important, part of the proceedings took place, there 15 months before the men received their official send-off, together with the heartiest wishes of the citizens for their welfare, and there they received their official welcome home. West Bell Street formed the last stage of their march through the city, and a crowd of people blocked the thoroughfare, leaving as much space, and no more, as would allow the procession to get through. About five minutes past eight o’clock the strains or martial music were heard, and were immediately drowned amid loud and prolonged cheering, and a short time sufficed to bring the procession to Parker Square. As the three battalions had to be accommodated in the hall the public were necessarily excluded, the available space being none too great for the large military turnout. The balcony in the hall was reserved for city dignitaries, volunteer officers, and a number of ladies. The company included Lord Provost Hunter, Mrs Hunter, Miss Hunter, Sir Thomas Thornton, LL.D., the Town Clerk; Colonel W. Gordon Thomson, Lieutenant- Colonel Luis, Colonel Howard Hill, Colonel Smith, Chaplain the Rev Dr Colin Campbell, Chaplain the Rev Dr Hugh George Watt, Bailies Urquhart, Allan, Melville, and Crichton, Lord Dean of Guild Bell, Councillors Mathers, Robertson, Doig, Nairn, Martin, High, Quirk, McKinnon, Macaulay, and Langlands, Chief Constable Dewar, Mr George Halley, and Mr John Thornton. The Battalion formed three sides of a square, the massed bands making up the fourth side, the active service men being marched into the centre, so that each section was in front of the battalion of which it formed a part.  

City Stirred to its depths.

The Lord Provost said – Officers and men of the 1st F.A.V., 1st V.B. Royal Highlanders and 3rd V.B. Royal Highlanders, ladies and gentlemen, fifteen months ago we had one of the largest gatherings that ever met under this roof. The enthusiasm at that time was the admiration of all, but I am sure the feelings of the citizens have never been stirred to a greater depth than they have been tonight (Applause.) We have had many processions in Dundee and many crowds, but the citizens never turned out in the way they have done tonight. As Chief Magistrate of the City, in name of the citizens, I most heartily welcome home the men we sent out fifteen months ago. (Applause.) When they went away we promised them a cordial welcome on their return, but none of us anticipated that they would have such a warm and enthusiastic reception. We know that they have had to undergo much suffering and danger, and we recognise that they did it all in the interests of our country. (Applause.)
The welcome they have received shows how well their patriotism has been appreciated. We are all proud of our volunteer force. Hitherto that force has not received the recognition from the government it deserves, but the work of the active service detachments in South Africa has caused the force to be regarded in a different light. We the citizens welcome you home, and your friends welcome you home, and all well-wishers of the volunteers earnestly trust that your home-coming may be marked by sobriety, and that it may not be made the occasion for excess in any way. (Applause.) I hope the patriotism and self-sacrifice you have shown, and the experience you have had, will make you even better citizens than before, and that you will now set yourselves to discharge your duties as citizens with earnestness and zeal. (Applause.)

A Grand Welcome

Colonel Howard Hill said – On behalf of the officers and men of the 1st Battalion, I ask you my Lord Provost, to convey to the citizens of Dundee the most hearty thanks of the active service men of the battalion for the grand welcome you have given them tonight. (Applause.) I also thank your Lordship for the kind words you have spoken to them. As commanding the battalion, I heartily welcome you back to your corps. (Applause.) I am proud, and we are all proud, that the 1st Battalion has sent such a contingent of officers and men to the front – officers and men who have done credit both to the battalion and to the city. (Applause.)   

All Hopes Realised.

Colonel Smith said – My Lord Provost, on behalf of the active service section of the battalion under my command, I offer you my most grateful thanks for the hearty ovation which you and the citizens have given them on their return from the war. I am sure our hopes when they left us have been fully realised, and we know they will be all the better citizens for the experience they have had in South Africa. (Applause.) We believe also that the volunteer service will be enriched by the leaven which they bring back – the leaven of discipline and good behaviour and steadfastness in adversity, and that ideal of duty which they have endeavoured to carry out from the day they left us till now. (Applause.) We are all personally indebted to the Lord Provost and Magistrates for the keen interest they have taken in your “awa’ ga’en and your hamecomin’” – (Loud applause) – and for the manner in which they watched your behaviour and the interest they took in those you left behind. (Applause.) I would be wanting in my duty if I did not offer a word of thanks and a meed of praise to our good friend Sir Thomas Thornton, the Town Clerk, who made so many of you burgesses of Dundee – of the noble city on the Tay. (Applause.) His interest in you has been no passing interest – I can bear testimony to that – and nothing has gladdened his heart more than that you should have come home in good health and spirits. (Applause.)
The Lord Provost called for three cheers for the King, which were enthusiastically given, the combined bands playing the National Anthem. Cheers were also given for the Queen and for Lord Provost and Mrs Hunter.

The Family Greetings.

Directly the word “Dismiss” was given the active service men were surrounded and borne off by their volunteer comrades, who triumphantly escorted them outside the iron gates.As each bronzed “kiltie” passed out to the street he was pounced upon by anxious relatives and friends he had not seen for many a day. The crowd awarded them all a deafening ovation. Dozens of spectators gathered round to have the honour of shaking hands with the men and giving them a congratulatory pat on the back. Especially warm was the greeting given by the crowd to Lieutenant Harry Smith, as looking in the best of health and spirits he made his appearance outside the gates. He is evidently as popular with the crowd as with his own soldiers, and the cordiality of his welcome back was fully appreciated by him. The night must have been a great one in the respective family circles of the returned heroes, and doubtless it was well into the small hours of the morning before the most sensational stories of life on the veldt had been recounted.

List of Returned Officers and Men

The full list of the Black Watch officers and men who returned home is as follows: -
Captain R. Hoyer Millar, commanding the company.
Lieutenant A. Valentine.
Lieutenant H.K. Smith.
Lieutenant E. Tosh.
Colour Sergeant Strathearn.

The Honoured Dead

South African Constabulary

The following have joined the South African Constabulary

Miscellaneous

Seven other were left for civil employment        

Talks with the Men

Their Experience on the Veldt

In the course of conversation with the volunteers on the night in which they arrived in Dundee, an “Advertiser” reporter obtained some interesting notes of their travels, experiences and impressions.
They admitted that they were glad to be home again; yet they did not regret that they had gone to the scene of war. It was an experience, they agreed, that should prove valuable, but at the same time they did not think they would undertake another period of campaigning of the same nature. They had not gone out for a picnic, and they had not been disappointed. They had been under fire 13 times and had marched close on 2000 miles. It was a hard time. Their sphere of operations was confined to the eastern portion of Orange River Colony, their battalion being associated with the Highland Brigade. The first half of their active service was the most trying. For seven months they were almost continuously on the march, and their hardships on several occasions were almost unbearable. Latterly they were engaged for the greater part in outpost duty, and this change was welcomed. Their first scrape with the enemy was at Welkom early in May. They were moving north on Wynburg in the general advance on Pretoria, and the Black Watch encountered the enemy entrenched on a kopje known as Wilderbeetfontein. It was here that they had their baptism of fire. It was slight, fortunately. The Boers did not offer great resistance, and were easily sent scampering. Corporal Skinner fell a victim to a Boer bullet, and thus had the honour of being the first of the Black Watch volunteers to taste them. After a short stay at Wynburgh – which they reached without further opposition.

The Highland Brigade

Set out for Ventersburg, about 34 miles to the north-east. This march they accomplished in fourteen hours – a highly creditable, and indeed their best, marching performance. A start was made at a late hour on a fine moonlight evening, and steady progress was made until Zand River – 18 miles distant – was reached. Here a four hours’ stoppage was made, and the remainder of the march was completed in the course of the forenoon and afternoon. On the day preceding the Queen’s birthday they commenced a march to Keilbron, a distance of 100 miles. During the first two days there was nothing to impede their progress, but for the remainder of the time they were harassed by thousands of the enemy. It was impossible almost to make headway. Every inch of the ground had to be fought, but with indomitable pluck the Highland Brigade, 4000 strong, pressed forward. For five days there was continuous fighting against overwhelming numbers. Lord Roberts had appointed a day on which they should occupy Heilbron, and on the day preceding that they were still 25 miles from their destination. Under the redoubtable MacDonald the Highlanders made a final effort, and notwithstanding close attention on the part of the enemy the Field Marshal’s orders were executed. The final spurt was a great effort, and the men as they neared the town dropped into any order. The next move in which the Black Watch were called to participate was to escort a convoy to Heilbron. The enemy overran the district, and the kilties found themselves in dire straits at times. They had three sharp brushes with the Boers in the course of this march.

Their most trying experience

However, was that which preceded the surrender of Prinsloo at Retief’s Nek, and it was here that the battalion sustained the majority of their casualties. One of the Dundee men recalled that their hardships in this engagement commenced on the Sunday before the summer holidays. On Saturday morning, 21st July, on returning from picket duty near Bethlehem, they received instructions to prepare for an advance. As the movement deployed it was realised that an important capture was pending, as it was impossible for the Boers to escape. Unfortunately De Wet slipped out before the British were up, but Prinsloo remained with over four thousand men.   
On Sunday afternoon the British scouts came into touch with the enemy, and just before dark it fell to the lot of the 42nd to occupy and hold a kopje commanding a Boer position. Latterly the order came to muster at the base of the hill. It was now pitch dark, and the descent was found to be almost an impossibility. Fires were lit in the grass to illuminate the path, and each man as he passed a blaze was expected to contribute a handful of fuel. One of the regular soldiers was so fatigued that he asked to be left behind. He would lie down and die. To add to their discomforts a bitingly cold wind sprang up, and in a few minutes attained the violence of a gale. Rain fell heavily, and this In turn was displaced by sleet. In the face of the elements the weary soldiers wended their way up the glen in single file to the camping ground. It was with the greatest difficulty that the Black Watch men found their quarters. There was no attempt to keep order, and the individual members straggled in one by one. Their blankets were soaking wet, but the men were dead tired, and fell fast asleep without removing a stitch of clothing. Their fare was meagre, and their work was hard. They paraded early next morning, and

A Pitiable Spectacle

They presented. Two days hard fighting followed. Lieutenant Smith of the Volunteer Company was sniped on the Monday, and on the afternoon that day the Black Watch got the order to dislodge a party of Boers from their entrenchments on a hillside. With bayonets fixed the kilties rushed the hill in brilliant fashion. The enemy did not wait for them, but fled whenever they saw the men at the double. The gallant Scots were rewarded, however, on reaching the Boer quarters. Coffee was left brewing, and a goodly supply of bread and butter was also left behind in the hurry. There was a great rush for the edibles as there was for the kopje. Throughout the following day they simply held the eminence. By that time the cordon had been practically completed as the Boers were gradually forced backwards. During the next two days the Black Watch were withdrawn, and, making a wide detour, occupied a nek which deprived the enemy of their last means of escape. This was not accomplished without considerable fighting. On 29th May Prinsloo surrendered with between 4000 and 5000 men. The Highland Brigade then moved towards Harrismith, and had a victorious entry, the Black Watch being honoured with the hoisting of the Union Jack at the Landrost’s office. The last engagement in which the volunteers took part was at Wynburg in September. They surprised a commando and captured between 30 and 40 waggons of provisions. In the Ladybrand district they remained on outpost duty until they were at liberty to return to Britain. They were loud in their praise of General Sir Hector Macdonald, and throughout their relations with the regulars of their battalion were of the most friendly nature.

Official Reception in Victoria Galleries

In honour of the Dundee members of the Black Watch Volunteers returned from South Africa the Lord Provost, Magistrates, and the Town Council held a reception in the Victoria Art Galleries on the evening of Monday, 20th May. All the men who returned were present, and they and a large number of invited guests were received by Lord Provost Hunter and Mrs Hunter, and by Bailies Urquhart, Crichton and Melville. The other members of the Council present were: - Lord Dean of Guild Bell, Councillors Martin, Nairn, Langlands, Robertson, and High.
The following volunteer officers were present: - 1st F.V.A. – Colonel W.G. Thomson, Captains R.H. Adamson, R.A. Mudie, A. McGillivray, J.C. Robertson, Lieutenant C.F.C. Moon, Surgeon-Captains Halley and Greig, and Rev Dr C.M. Grant, Chaplain; 1st V.B.R.H. – Colonel Hill and Colonel Scroggie, Majors Watson and Nelson, Captains Harry Walker, J.M. Mitchell, R.A. Robertson, and A. Hendry, Lieutenants Shepherd, C.E. Walker, Watson, Muir, Adamson and Lamb, Surgeon-Captains Lennox and Rogers, and Surgeon-Lieutenant Whyte; 3rd V.B.R.H. – Colonel Smith and Colonel Batchelor, Major Macdonald, Captain and Adjutant F. Abbot Anderson, Captains D.M. Small, P.S. Nicoll, D. Milne, J.A. Anton, R. Bell, W.R. Smith, Lieutenants Barry, J.M. Tosh and G.S. Rae. Among the general company were: - Major W.H. Fergusson: Sir Thomas Thornton, LL.D.; Provost Thomson, Newport; Chief Constable Dewar; Messrs William Thornton, John Thornton, R. Still; J. Maclauchlan, Librarian &c. The ladies present included: - Mrs Hunter and Miss Hunter, Mrs Hill, Mrs Edward Hill, Mrs Crichton, Mrs Urquhart, Miss Halley, Mrs R.C. Walker, Mrs High, Mrs D. McIntyre, Mrs Tosh, and Miss Tosh, Mrs Smith, Mrs Mitchell, Mrs T. Watson, Mrs Greig, Mrs Mcnaughton: Mrs Robertson and Misses Robertson, Dudhope; Mrs Hendry, Mrs Nelson, Miss Dewar, and many others.
The guests, after being received, partook of tea, which was provided at a special buffet, and a pleasant hour was thus spent, the enjoyment being greatly enhanced by delightful and appropriate music rendered by the band of the 1st V.B.R.H., under Bandmaster Davidson, and by the Pipe Band of the 3rd V.B.R.H., under Sergeant-Piper Stewart. Thereafter the company assembled in the large gallery, where an excellent vocal programme was rendered. Before it was proceeded with the Lord Provost, who presided, gave an introductory address. They were met, he said, for the purpose of giving a welcome to those volunteers who had returned from South Africa, and he was sure the welcome which they would receive would be a hearty one. (Applause.) About 15 months ago Dundee sent out about 40 volunteers to South Africa. Most of them had now returned, and they were glad to see them so well and so strong and apparently so healthy. (Applause.) He was sure that what he had expressed was the feeling of everyone in the City. When the volunteers arrived in the city on Friday they received such a welcome as any body of conquering heroes might be proud of, and there was one thing which was a cause of gratefulness – that the whole population was so imbued with a sense of good order, that amidst all the enthusiasm and the vast crowds that assembled to welcome them there was not a single accident or one complaint. That, he thought, was very creditable to the citizens. (Applause.) He would like to say, however, that while they welcomed the volunteers who had returned they could not forget those who were left behind sick and wounded, and they all deeply sympathised with their friends at home. In addition to these there were not a few throughout the country, and some belonging to the Dundee district, who would never return, and their heartfelt sympathy went out to the friends and relatives of those who had been called on to die through wounds or sickness in South Africa. With regard to the volunteer movement, they were all proud of it, proud of the volunteers who gave themselves for active service in South Africa, and specially proud of those from the Dundee district, which was the home of the Black Watch, that grand old Highland regiment to which the volunteers were attached, which had done splendid work in days gone by, and which had done splendid work in South Africa. The Lord Provost presented each of the men with a copy of the well-known local publication – “The Muster-Roll of Angus.” Lieutenants Valentine, Smith and Tosh first came forward, and received the book, followed by the other men individually. Four others unconnected with the Black Watch who had seen active service in South Africa also received copies, the quartette including Surgeon-Captain Greig.

District Greetings

Lieutenant Tosh and Private James Duncan received from Newport a right good welcome. The Lieutenant on alighting from the train was met by a host of friends, all eager to shake hands with him. This operation over, he was carried shoulder high to his house, surrounded by friends, whose cheers were as genuine as they were loud. Arriving at the house gate, there were loud cries of “Speech.” The gallant soldier made a short reply. Private Duncan crossed from the city with the 9.30 boat to find a right hearty welcome awaiting on his home side. Long ere a landing was effected the hero had greetings from hearty voices on shore, and when he was carried out of the boat shoulder-high by a party of comrades he was received with a perfect ovation. At the pier-head the waiting crowed swelled the procession, having Duncan for its frontispiece, and from there right on to his dwelling-house in William Street the march was one of triumph. Neighbourly decorators had done their work well here, and the Union Jack floating with kindred bunting over the garden gave distinction to the warrior’s home.   
At Broughty Ferry Private John Scrimgeour was met by his old companions of the Gymnasium Club and the Forthill Football Club with vociferous cheering, and was escorted to his home in Atholl Terrace amidst the heartiest outburst of greetings.
Private High duly turned up, and got a most enthusiastic reception. It transpired that Private Malcolm had lost the train at Perth, and had consequently been looked for in vain.   

transcribed from the Year Book by Iain D. McIntosh, Friends of Dundee City Archives

transcribed by Iain D. McIntosh, 2020