History can be boring, but it can also read like an action novel that can compete with many of today’s action films.

Captain Oliver John “Jack” Hindon (1874–1919) was a Scottish-born Boer military officer and renowned scout during the Second Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902). Known as a “master train wrecker” for his sabotage of British railway lines, he served with the Middelburg Commando, became a trusted scout, and was celebrated for his bravery at Spioenkop (South African Military History Society).

From a young Scottish drummer boy in the British Army to an unstoppable Boer scout, his life was filled with daring adventures that even the British struggled to track. He was one of the bravest and most unconventional heroes of the Anglo-Boer War.

Hindon joined the Boer forces during the Second Anglo-Boer War, working alongside figures such as Danie Theron and Henri Slegtkamp. “Dynamite Jack” gained a reputation for disrupting British logistics, particularly by destroying railway lines with explosives.

At the Battle of Spioenkop, he notably commanded a unit that held back General Buller’s forces and planted the Vierkleur flag on the summit of Spioenkop. He was recognised as a “Bittereinder” (one who fought to the end) and never surrendered. The Jack Hindon Medal, awarded for service to the South African Commando forces, was named after him in 1970.

Hindon was considered a significant thorn in the side of the British, with Lord Kitchener reportedly acknowledging the severe disruption caused by his scouting and sabotage. 

Dynamite Jack’s graveisin the Old Middelburg Municipal Cemetery. From a young Scottish drummer boy in the British Army to an unstoppable Boer scout, his life was filled with daring adventures that even the British struggled to track.

The Middelburg Heritage Society is collecting the stories of all our local heroes, including Henri Slegtkamp. We are also updating the Middelburg Tourist Information website, www.middelburginfo.com, with this and other information. To find out more, contact Zunine at enquiries@middelburgchamber.com