A Zulu irregular force routed a poorly positioned British convoy at the Intombe River, notable for Sergeant Booth's disciplined rearguard that saved survivors.
Key Facts
- Date
- 12 March 1879
- Zulu leader
- Mbilini waMswati
- Cattle seized by Zulu
- approximately 250 cattle
- Garrison infantry response
- 150 infantry followed on foot
- Key British action
- Sergeant Booth formed square and retreated southwards
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
A British supply convoy travelling from Derby to Lüneburg became strung out and bogged down on both sides of the flooded Intombe River. The wagons were laagered haphazardly near the north bank, leaving the force dangerously split. Mbilini waMswati observed the convoy's vulnerability from the high ground of the Tafelberg and assembled a large force of Zulu irregulars to exploit the situation.
At dawn on 12 March 1879, Mbilini's Zulu irregulars used early morning mist to rush the north-bank laager, overwhelming the British soldiers and African auxiliary drivers. A handful of men swam or crossed the swollen river to join the small south-bank party. The British officer commanding on the south bank then deserted on horseback, leaving Sergeant Anthony Booth to form a defensive square and conduct a fighting retreat southward.
Booth's rearguard held off Zulu pursuers until a relief force arrived from the Lüneburg garrison, rescuing the survivors. The Zulu made off with approximately 250 cattle and a large quantity of supplies from the wagons. Sergeant Booth was later awarded the Victoria Cross for his leadership during the retreat.
Belligerents & Mobilization Analysis
Side A
1 belligerent
Sergeant Anthony Booth (de facto).
Side B
1 belligerent
Mbilini waMswati.