UNITS OF THE ZULU WAR 1879
NATAL NATIVE CONTINGENT (Cavalry)
Five Troops of African horseman was proposed before the war began. An enthusiastic response from the amaNgwane people of the foothills of the Drakensburg Mountains meant they ended up with six Troops. They were led by white officers and known as the Natal Native Mounted Contingent totalling over 300 men. Unlike native infantry the cavalry were all armed with modern rifles. They had to provide their own horse but if it was killed would receive £10 compensation. Troopers were supplied with cord uniforms and boots but many decided to ride bare foot. Five Troops were involved around Isandlwana and after the defeat disbanded. They would after reform as the Natal Native Horse and each troop was usually known for the tribe it came from or it’s commanding officer such as Shepstones Horse. They would be involved in many of the major engagements later in the war.
Mounted Native Troopers
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