Hunter

Hunter was born in London in 1857 and, when old enough, sent to a private school where he gained a reputation for brevity and determination. Joining the Royal Military Academy in 1874 he then served with the King’s Own regiment in Gibraltar and Barbados and accepted a commission in the Sudanese Army.

Major-General Archibald Hunter became Sir George White’s Chief of Staff during the siege and his opinion was nearly always sought before decisions were made. The sortie to Gun Hill best illustrates his ability not only to plan, but also to lead, and he was highly respected by all ranks. In 1900 after the relief of Ladysmith he was promoted to Lieutenant-General. On 21st January 1901 he developed malaria and was sent home. He retired 1926 and died 28th June 1936.

when he is signatory to a petition for remission of the death sentence on Johannes de LANGE. On 22 June 1861 he goes into partnership with Thomas Wyatt MINTER to form Minter and Friday hotelkeepers with their hotel Wildebeeste.

Other Hotels and Inns were sited along the roads connecting Ladysmith to Colenso, Newcastle, Dundee and the Drakensberg mountains but bear no relevance to the Siege of the town.