Deadwood Camp Gedenksboek

De Krijgsgevangene No1 newspaper

This document WAS NOT in the original Gedenksboek but is relevant to the book

This document was sourced courtesy of "Government Archives in Jamestown " and Wilf Vevers
Translation to English via J Marsh

De Kryggevangenis No 1 pg 1
Page 1
De Krijgsgevangene no 1
H. Everitt and J.H.L. Schumann, Editors
(Author's copyright reserved) Saturday 8 June 1901

IN MEMORIAM
A. J Ter Meulen.
Captured as PoW at Boshof, 5 April, 1900.
Born in Bechum (Holland) 1874.
Passed away on 6 June 1901 in the "Boer Hospital", Jamestown.
(On behalf of Dutch PoWs)
A.F. van der Steenhoven


With this [newsletter] we make acquaintance for the first time with the residents of Deadwood and Broad-Bottom. How we shall be received only time will tell. We are all agreed that there is a need for a news sheet exclusive for and by the PoWs [Prisoners of War] . Our readers must not, however, expect any politics. The censorship regulations prevent us from saying anything about the war or anything connected therewith. We shall therefore confine ourselves to community matters outside of the war, and propose limiting ourselves to a programme as follows:-
  1. Matters relating to happenings in the two camps, with the exception of any personal or hateful gossip being strictly enforced, as we do not want to be a blame-sheet. [schend-blad]
  2. General information - including cable news and reports from Europe - as far as the censors will allow.
  3. Special reports of Sports, Societies, "Clubs", Education and matters relating thereto.
  4. One column will be devoted to religious matters, since most of our readers are not as yet so 'advanced' (as they claim) as to consider coping with life without God or religion.

Where it might be needed in the public interest to criticise those men who have taken upon themselves the responsibility of running the camp, we shall have our rightful say without attacking personalities and keeping to the truth. And if in so doing we exceed the boundaries, we shall give the objections a fair hearing and open ourselves to all points of view. Our newspaper will be open to correspondence, but our readers must consider that space is limited; and the editors have the right to refuse inclusion of any letters submitted; in all cases the writer must sign his piece and include his tent or house number. Write only on one side of the paper. Items are to be addressed to "The Editor KRIJGSGEVANGENE" and must write clearly. The official language is [high] Dutch. You may also write in your "Patriotsch". [Afrikaans]

PoWs wishing to sell their made goods in South Africa can still obtain all information from us. They can advertise their wares in our paper, which will also be offered for sale in the Colony [Cape].

From these few comments we hope that the purpose and spirit of our paper will be clear, and we do not think it necessary to say any more. We shall be primarily dependent on your support as far as circulation goes on the island, and we leave our future in your hands.


"Vijfkleur" Sporting and Social Club
Our fellow PoWs met in Jamestown on 29th May with the intention of forming a club. Mr Waldeck was chosen as chairman of the meeting, and said that the purpose of the gathering was the establishment of a Sports Society and Theatre, with the aim of having a place where people could meet socially in the evenings. Mr W. E. Wagner was chosen as the Secretary and Mr H. Fick as treasurer. Following some discussion the name shown above was agreed upon. The following were appointed as a Committee to draw up regulations and present them for approval to a future meeting: Messrs Venter, Charlie Coetzee, MacKenzie, Taylor, Gardner, Balracci and Pietersen.

It was decided to send a letter to the Secretaries of all the Unions in Deadwood Camp, telling them about the founding of this Club and asking them to help us get donations of sporting equipment.

After a few words from the Chairman the meeting closed.


De Kryggevangenis No 1 pg 2
Page 2
"The Widows and Orphans Funds"

As we are all well aware - and have discovered with gratitude - there is a collection on the European continent and especially in Holland, of considerable sums of money for the benefit of PoWs, women and children in [concentration] camps, and Widows and Orphans. Of these three, we favour the last-mentioned, because these unfortunates will always be with us, and in need of help, even after the war ends, while we, our wives and children are only temporarily in need, although we are very grateful for the successful assistance rendered to make out lot easier to bear.

To show our gratitude in a practical way to our European friends, and to contribute from our side to their good works, a Committee has been formed with Commandant Eloff as Chairman, H. Everitt as Secretary, and as members Messrs Nielsen, van Huijssteen, Coetzee and van Wijk. Their task is to collect all types of curios made by the PoWs and offered as free gifts, to pack and to send them on to Holland where their sale would contribute to increasing the Widows and Orphans Funds. The Honourable Capt V. de Witt-Hamer collaborates in this effort in that he sends the goods to his brothers [in Holland] who lend a hand by selling them there.

The first consignment departed on the latest mailboat. The contents included among others, 550 pen holders, 50 brooches, a number of slide-boxes [schuifdoors], boxes with secret compartments, spectacle cases, match boxes, and many other items of wood and bone, too many to list.

The second consignment is currently being collected and we appeal to all PoWs to contribute something - no matter how small - to this cause. Think that "every little bit helps" and even if the sum realised from selling our submitted items is small, it shows our deep appreciation for the sympathy shown us by our European friends, and our willingness to work alongside them in this highly praiseworthy charitable endeavour.

The Broadbottem Camp has a similar commission, with Commandant A. van Niekerk as Chairman, Mr H.Fivaz as Secretary and members Messrs Lindique and Victor.

We cherish the hope that not only one or two consignments shall be sent to Europe, but that so many items will be collected that the sending of a kist thereof can be sent with every mail-boat; and that the sale of those items would raise a considerable sum of money which might alleviate the suffering of many Widows and Orphans. This is a deserving cause and God's blessing will rest upon it.


The dream statue of Nebuchadnezzar
(Dan[iel] 2) (By J.H.L.S.).
Israel was under banishment. The Prophet Jeremiah had written to the prisoners in Babel [Babylon] saying "seek peace for the city to which I am sending you as prisoners and pray to the Lord for her peace because therein lies your prosperity." Nebuchadnezzar, the man who started out as the head of the Babylonian armed forces, had under the permission and with the guidance of Jehovah, succeeded to the throne of Babylon. He was the head of the world's first great empire. Daniel (then called Belthazar) was a courtier in the royal court, having spent three years previously undergoing special instruction from Aspenaz [in the language and customs of the Babylonians]. This Daniel was a young man, good looking and of good build, learned in the ways of the Chaldeans but also God-fearing and serving the God of Jacob. The King had a dream, which upset him, and he could not rest until he discovered its meaning. God made the King forget the content of his dream. God's plan was to destroy the credibility of the Chaldean wise men, and to speak to the King through his own prophet, showing him God's wisdom. Through this prophet God spoke not only to Nebuchadnezzar but also to all empires and king which would follow, and also to us. And as we see, this prophecy from Daniel about the King's dream is of particular importance and meaning for the [bewogen] empires of our times and especially for God's children who belong to the heavenly kingdom, that of Jesus Christ. We should do well to consider this matter, because even if the reader wants nothing to do with it, he will find that it does concern him.

The dream was admittedly dreamed long ago, but the explanation (or more exactly the fulfillment) is still ongoing. This is one of many revelations from God to people and is narrowly connected to three parties:

  1. Israel,
  2. The people,
  3. The followers of Jesus.
When Israel was still in Egypt, an Israelite, Joseph, served in the court of the foreign king, Pharaoh. God used him there as a dream interpreter and witness of the true God. Between Joseph's and Daniel's times, God ruled, led, rebuked, punished, let them be conquered and banished to an enemy's country, and would not let them into his sight for a specific time. But a new time came and through the dream of Nebuchadnezzar he unveiled his plan to the prophet Daniel - a plan which in our own days seems to be coming to fruition.

(To be continued).


De Kryggevangenis No 1 pg 3
Page 3
The Christian Betterment Society Of St Helena Prisoners of War [CSV - Christelike Streven Vereniging]

By C.F.M.

This Society needs no introduction and the purpose of our writing is not just to introduce her to our readers of De Krijgsgevangene. We think though that our purpose and the workings of the Society might not be known to all and, who knows, "unknown means unloved."

On 11 May this year our CSV celebrated its first birthday on St Helena - may it also be the last under these circumstances! For members and particularly the founders [voorgangers], it was a day of jubilation and thanksgiving. Inevitably thoughts turned back to 11 May 1900 when Ds J.R. Albertyn founded the Society on the grass, under open skies, with nine members and five associates. Today there are over 300 members, most of whom are full [l-ende] members. For those who carry the Society in their hearts, there is much, almost unendingly much to be thankful for, and in everything they recognize God's good hand over them.

The motto of the Society, like that of all CSV's in all countries, is "for Christ and Church", yet there is a second motto meant in particular for the local Union, which is: Ora et labora - pray and work.

The purpose of the Society is in short to "organize a serious, Christ-like life among the members, to increase their knowledge of each other, and to make them more useful in the service of the Lord." It can further be said that the members try to reach other young men and increase their interest in CSV work; the Society also aims to help the weak, visit the sick etc. Once a week there is a meeting where Biblical subjects are discussed, for example "the power of the Satans", "Paul as a missionary", "The most important [Ber en] of the Bible", "Feelings", "Humility", "Living with Jesus", etc.

It is expected of every working member to participate in the meetings (except for singing) by reading scripture here, which has a bearing on the subject, by a prayer or speaking a short word. The meeting only lasts an hour, and is kept as lively as possible by the Chairman by singing suitable songs - mainly taken from the "Kinderharp" - and short focused prayers.

(To be continued).


"Vierkleur" Koffiehuis
De Meillon & Co
Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Cake, Tart and pancakes always available.
Boer-bread and mosbolletjies a speciality.


OUR SPORTING COLUMN

Boxing

The contest between J.P. Nel and G. Pienaar roused a great deal of anticipatory interest. It came off on the evening of Saturday, 1st instant, in the new building erected by Messrs Slabbert and Young. Notwithstanding the somewhat high price of seats, the building was crowded, and we feel sure that had the building been twice the size, it would have been just as full. We noticed a strong detachment of Military and other visitors, including Col. Paget - our Camp Commandant - and a number of other officers.

The proceedings opened at 8 p.m. with two preliminary four round contests, for which M J van Niekerk was elected referee, Messrs Pietersen and Waldeck as Judges, and Phil Blignaut as timekeeper. The first was J. Mynhardt vs Herbst, and produced four round of quick and lively fighting. Both men drew blood, and in the matter of exchanges there was little gained on either side. The contest was declared a draw.

The second contest was between E. Mynhardt and J. van Dyk. The latter had the advantage in weight, and at once proceeded to make use of it. Never leading, immediately Mynhardt did so Van Dyk bored in, forced his opponent to the ropes, and proceeded him to pummel, getting in so close, however, that his blows had no strength. In the third round he began to tire, and then Mynhardt had things more his own way, easily avoiding his Van Dyk's rushes, and making his reach tell. Finally the fight was given in Mynhardt's favour.

The event of the evening followed:-

J.P. Nel vs G. Pienaar, to be a fight to the finish, or the best of thirty rounds, under Marquis of Queensberry rules, with 5oz. gloves.
Commandant Smorenburg was chosen as Referee, Messrs J. Kotze and H. Pietersen as Judges, and Messrs J. Raaff and J. Ludorf as Timekeepers. The men were seconded by their trainers, viz.:- Nel by Mr. Bekker, assisted by Mr. F. Roome, and Pienaar by Mr. W. Parker, assisted by Mr. A. Jankowitz.

They appeared in the ring at the declared weights of Nel 11st. 4 and Pienaar 10st. 6. Both looked well, though knowing ones seemed to think that while Pienaar had been brought in perfection, Nel fell somewhat short thereof.,

  • 1st Round. - Nel started forcing the fighting, and a good deal of clinching occurred. He brought Pienaar once to his knees, and once threw him from a clinch, but the appeal for a foul was not allowed.
  • 2nd Round. - Exchanges very fair, with but little advantage to either side. It was noticed that Nel was puffing a bit.
  • 3rd Round. - After some rattling exchanges the men clinched and fell in Nel's corner. Shortly after Pienaar got home on the point, and dazed his man. After some rather wild hits, he floored him, and at call of time Nel was still down.
  • 4th Round. - Nel came out dazed and staggering, but still endeavoured to force the fighting, though he continually clinched, often to save himself from falling. He was floored again and again and was on the floor at the gong
  • 5th Round. - Nel was again staggering, and it was plain that the fight was practically over. Still Pienaar did not seem able to knock his man out until near the end of the round, when another clip on the point sent him to the sawdust, and he was counted out.
  • Pienaar - who, we understand, now claims to be light-weight champion of the PoWs on the Island, - finished as fresh as a daisy, and reflected great credit on his trainer, Mr. W. Parker. We hear rumours of one or two prospective challenges in store for him, and feel assured that anyone tackling him will show the spectators a good fight. Pienaar is a quick and clever young boxer, and never loses his head.
    De Kryggevangenis No 1 pg 4
    Page 4

    FOOTBALL (ASSOCIATION
    Deadwood 2nd vs Broadbottom 2nd

    A team from the rival camp visited us on Saturday, but a very strong wind prevented any good play, and neither side scored. It must be admitted that the visitors showed better form and combination than our boys, and we think would have won on a quiet day. Our new full-back, Welgemoed, played a very sound defensive game, kicking most accurately with either foot, while Lubbe and Bodendijk attacked again and again for the visitors, but failed to put it through.


    Our friends in Holland have just sent us a new supply of Cricket and Football material, for which we tender them our best thanks, as also to Mr de Witt-Hamer, who obtained it for us. It has been divided with Broadbottom, and as soon as the weather permits, we are glad to see that a Cricket Tournament is being arranged, in which we hope Broadbottom, and the newly formed "Vijfkleur" Town Club will be included. Names of intending players here must be handed in to Mr. G.D. Mentz, Union Secretary, before 12th instant.


    Advertisements
    "SONGS" [sheet music] "Two Brothers", "By a Grave, or Waiting"
    and another ten or so available from
    J.H.L. Schuman, Deadwood Camp.

    EXPECTED SHORTLY FROM EUROPE
    "They will miss me" "Boer Prisoner's Return"
    Song [sheets] from
    J.H.L. Schuman, Deadwood Camp.

    HARRY COX
    Pancake Street, Deadwood
    Storekeeper, Pawnbroker, Auctioneer, Commission Agent. Money advanced on all available articles and a General Stock of Camp necessaries always on hand at lowest prices.


    A TRIAL SOLICITED


    DISSOLUTION OF PARTNERSHIP
    Church, Pentz and Briede.
    Notice is hereby given that Mr. Briede has retired from the above firm. Business will be carried on in future by Messrs. Church and Pentz, to and by whom all accounts must be paid.

    PRESIDENT CAFÉ
    M.J. Slabbert.
    Apart from the best Cake, Coffee etc. you can obtain the best Groceries [sic] and Draperies [sic] here at reasonable prices. The Owner wishes to always welcome his clients and as far as is in his power to satisfy them.
    Stamps [sic] always available.

    "SPORTSMEN'S RETREAT."
    J.P. Smith & J.S. Grobelaar
    Available at all hours: Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Cake, Tarts etc.
    "Hot Suppers" at any time
    "Boarders" accepted, good eating guaranteed.


    ADVERTISING TARIFF
    One shilling and sixpence per inch, one shilling thereafter.
    Copy to be submitted to the owners by Wednesday each week at H. Everitt and H. Fick,
    Deadwood Camp and Jamestown

    PRINTED BY B.GRANT, "GUARDIAN" OFFICE
    PUBLISHED BY FICK AND EVERITT
    AT DEADWOOD CAMP ST HELENA.
    Agent at Broadbottom, Mr Karney

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