Rand Pioneers Third Annual Dinner Programme (also Jameson Raid and Anglo-Boer War Interest)

Rand Pioneers Third Annual Dinner Programme (also Jameson Raid and Anglo-Boer War Interest)

A rare piece of africana (probably unique in this original signed iteration) and source on Johannesburg history, with the signatures of dignitaries from the period, including a signature of Colonel Bettington (President of the Rand Pioneers).  Sir Percy Fitzpatrick was also in attendance. The other signatures on the programme are un-researched.

The Third Annual Dinner was held on 23 September 1905 in the Freemasons Hall, Jeppe Street, Johannesburg.  The Rand Pioneers dinners used to be occasions of great importance on the Witwatersrand, occupying something of the position of accorded to the London Lord Mayors banquets, as prominent members of society used to attend and deliver important political speeches.
The Rand Pioneer Association was established in 1903.  A Rand Pioneer was considered to be one, who through their activity, enterprise or industry, was a founding father of Johannesburg society from 1886 onwards.  As such, members included many 'Randlords'.

A handsomely presented programme, and apart from oxidation spots and age related ware, in good condition.

Colonel Rowland Albermarle Arthur Bettington (1852-1933), a stockbroker, who raised "Bettington's Horse" in 1895 and rode out to support Dr Jameson's abortive invasion of the Transvaal.  In 1899 Bettington with his four sons volunteered, and joined Thorneycroft's Mounted Infantry with the rank of captain, and fought in the Natal campaign until he was wounded at Spionkop