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Following the Boer War, the British transferred many of their prisoners to various
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Following the Boer War, the British transferred many of their prisoners to various
Following the Boer War, the British transferred many of their prisoners to various countries and colonies under their domain in South and South East Asia. The Captain and the crew of the HMS Fox, having come to Diyatalawa, Sri Lanka in 1913, struck up the idea of having their ships insignia displayed on a nearby hillock. With assistance from the Boers, they placed white stones to depict a Fox followed by the year 1913. This gave rise to the particular hill being called the Fox Hill and to this day this hillock is called the Fox Hill. Date: circa 1910s
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© Mary Evans / Grenville Collins Postcard Collection
Boer Captives Ceylon Hillock Hillside Jan20 Lanka Lankan Prisoners Foxhill
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Following the Second Boer War (1899-1902), the British Empire transferred thousands of Boer prisoners to various countries and colonies under their rule, including Sri Lanka (then known as Ceylon). In 1913, the Captain and crew of the HMS Fox, a British warship, arrived at Diyatalawa, Sri Lanka, and sought to leave a lasting mark on their temporary home. Inspired by the hilly terrain, they collaborated with local laborers, many of whom were former Boer prisoners, to create an enduring tribute on a nearby hillock. Using white stones, they meticulously crafted the image of a fox, a symbol of the HMS Fox, followed by the year of their arrival, 1913. This hillock, now known as Fox Hill, stands proudly in Diyatalawa, preserving the history of the British presence in Sri Lanka during a pivotal time in its past. The hill's distinctive feature continues to attract visitors, serving as a testament to the unique collaboration between the British and local Boer prisoners. Captured in the early 1910s, this photograph offers a glimpse into a bygone era, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Captain and crew, as well as the resilience of the Boer prisoners who helped bring this project to life. Fox Hill remains a cherished landmark in Diyatalawa, a reminder of the rich history that unfolded on its hallowed grounds.
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