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Artwork Title: Agterryer (Attendant)
Artist: Phil Minnaar
Medium: Bronze (maquette)
Date: 2012


During the South African War, black farmworkers were employed by the Boer forces in various capacities. The most important function performed by black South Africans on commando was that of an Agterryer. The word, Agterryer, is an Afrikaans word that refers to a logistical supporter, an orderly or mounted attendant. Approximately 12 000 Agterryers accompanied the Boer forces on commando at the beginning of the war, although the number declined drastically during the guerrilla phase.

The duties of an Agterryer were mainly non-combatant including tasks such as looking after horses, collecting firewood, cooking food, washing
clothes, etc. Agterryers mainly saw to it that the horses were kept out of harm’s way during battles and skirmishes, reuniting with the commando after the fighting has ended. Due to their knowledge of the terrain, mobility and the nature of their responsibilities Agterryers often excelled in scouting and tracking.

They were also an important link between the commandos and the African rural communities, acting as translators when needed. Even though it wasn’t the norm, Agterryers assisted in carrying rifles and ammunition. This important supportive role that Agterryers performed were an integral part of the commando system at the commencement of the war. The invaluable logistical support Agterryers provided contributed to the success of
the commandos as a fighting unit. Agterryers frequently came under British fire and an unknown number were killed while serving in Boer commandos.

During the latter part of the war Agterryers generally served with the Boer forces without any renumeration whatsoever. When the war ended, many commandos still had a small number of Agterryers serving with them. They preferred loyalty to the Boers over the higher salaries paid by the British military authorities.