As the battle at Isandlwana drew to a close several Zulu regiments under Cetshwayo’s younger brother,Prince Dabulamanzi ka Mapande, reached the Buffalo River, perusing the escaping British from Isandlwana. These regiments had not been involved in the battle and looked for a way to join in the success. Dabulamanzi, an aggressive leader,and a hot headed warrior resolved to lead these Zulu regiments to the further triumph of capturing the British base at the Rorke’s Drift, crossing on the Buffalo River. A single company of infantry was garrisoned at the mission station at Rorke’s Drift and were largely made up by Welshmen.
Dabaulamanzihad been told by the King NOT to cross the Buffalo River and enter recognised British territory. He disobeyed the order and attacked the garrison at Rorke’sDrift.
The company colour sergeant was Frank Bourne and the sole officer was Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead before Lt. John Chard of the Royal arrived and took over command as the longest serving officer. Size of the armies: 139 British troops against about 4,500 Zulus. The mission belonged to the Reverend Otto Witt, a Swede. Mr Witt’s church had been turned into a store by the British Army; his house a military hospital under Surgeon James Reynolds. By the outbreak of war the Zulus had thousands of muskets and rifles, but of a poor standard, and the Zulus were ill-trained in their use. The Zulus captured some 1,000 Martini Henry breech loading rifles and a large amount of ammunition at Isandlwana. Some of these rifles were used at Rorke’s Drift. All the British casualties, few though they were, were shot rather than stabbed. Rorke’s Drift is an iconic battle for Britain like Isandlwana, but for the reverse reason. The British garrison was commanded by Lieutenant John Chard, Royal Engineers, and Lieutenant Gonville Bromhead of the 24th Foot. The Zulus were commanded by Prince Dabulamanzi kaMapande.
Casualties -: The British lost 17 killed and the Zulus an estimated 500.
A record number of 11 Victoria Crosses were awarded to the defenders of Rorkes Drift. Victoria Crosses were awarded to: Lt. Chard, Lt. Bromhead, Surgeon-Major Reynolds, Commissary Dalton, Cpl. Allan, Pvt. Hitch, Pvt. Hook, Pvt. W. Jones, Pvt. R. Jones, Cpl. Scheiss, Pvt. John Williams.
