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Date	Original Topic
16th December 2002	Last Stand at Isandlwana By David Bluestein Fact OR Fiction: "...at the precise moment the eclipse of the sun took place, Younghusband was permitted time to shake hands with his men, before charging down the slope to their deaths." This is such a fantastic quote; What do we actually know about the last stand at Isandlwana? Was there actually a "British Square" formed? Thanks in advance, and my very best wishes for a safe and happy Christmas. David
Date	Replies
16th December 2002	Julian Whybra There were several 'last stands' formed with the men standing back to back, not necessarily at the time of the eclipse. Apart from Younghusband's, there were Durnford's, Shepstone's, Wardell's (perhaps a separate one around Dyer), Pope's, Anstey's, Pullen's, and no doubt several others based on the company remnants.
16th December 2002	John Young David, I think I've gone over this one in the past - am I right in assuming your quote is from a South African tour-guide? Let me know and I'll discuss further. John Young, A.-Z.W.R.S.
16th December 2002	David Bluestein Yes, I did submit a Younghusband question many months ago. The quote is from the tour guide. I was not aware of an eclipse, and wondered primarily about a the formation of the "British Square" as in the famous painting? Was that painting of the Younghusband incident? Thanks again David
16th December 2002	John Young David, This is apparently based on Zulu oral history, apparently gleaned from the descendants of Zulu warriors who were present. Frankly, I think it on a par with "The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance" - when the legend is better than the truth - then print the legend. Best I can say with regard to fact. As to the Fripp painting - the central figure of that painting is actually a Lance-Sergeant, there were three Lance-Sergeants present from the 24th - one from 1st/24th - two from 2nd/24th. I personally don't think Fripp intended to portray a particular stand, just to symbolize the small knots of men who banded together in one desperate final struggle. But that's my own opinion. John Young, A.-Z.W.R.S.
16th December 2002	Keith Smith David Sorry to spoil your day still further - the eclipse took place about 2.30 pm, and was hardly noticed, certainly by those involved in the battle, largely because most if not all were dead by that time. Keith
17th December 2002	David Bluestein Thanks to all who responded. Your input is much appreciated. David