TOPIC:

Mr Thomas Barclay Govan was born on the 18 November 1869 in Springburn,Glasgow. His first appointment was in the Natal Government Railways on the 30 July 1897.In June 1899 was appointed Clerk at Talana Station.[WO100/279] mentions "Taken prisoner by enemy through seige of Ladysmith" He was sent to Elandslaagte on Special Duty.(Letter dated 06.05.1900)Documention from Government Archives shows he was sent a parcel however, it had to be redirected with charges. Communication between Assistant General Manager- Mr.J.M.Hunter and Postmaster General- Hamilton discusses the special duties,as a result charges for the redirection were withdrawn.(PMG 85,485/1900)He rose to Relieving Stationmaster,Ladysmith at the time of his death. He died on the 20 July 1905 near Glasgow while visiting Family.[MSCE 24/84]
His medal is Named to Natal Government Railways.
The question raised.. was he with the group that walked from Dundee to Ladysmith after the battle of Talana? How was he taken prisoner in Ladysmith?

Perhaps he was in Boer hands after Dundee was occupied and only returned to duty with the NGR after Ladysmith was relieved? So he may not actually have been a prisoner but prevented from doing his duty by them while they occupied Dundee.

Regards
Brett