Virtual
War Memorial
Australia

Not listed on Colonel Murray's Nominal Roll 

Alfred Ernest Rowe (c. 1877–1943)

Early Life and Background

Alfred Ernest Rowe was born around 1877 in New South Wales, Australia. Little is known about his early years, but he grew up in a rural setting, developing skills in horsemanship and bushcraft—attributes that would later make him an ideal recruit for military service.

Service in the Second Boer War (1899–1902)

With the outbreak of the Second Boer War, Rowe enlisted in 1900 as part of the New South Wales Citizens’ Bushmen, a mounted infantry unit composed of experienced bushmen and riders, specifically chosen for their ability to operate in harsh terrain. He was assigned to D Squadron, which was deployed to South Africa in early 1900.

The NSW Citizens’ Bushmen left Sydney aboard the troopship SS Armenian on 28 February 1900, landing in Cape Town on 2 April 1900. After traveling via Beira, Mozambique, they reached Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) before joining British forces engaged in guerrilla warfare against Boer commandos.

Rowe and D Squadron took part in significant battles, including:

•The Action at Koster’s River (22 July 1900) – A failed attempt to relieve the besieged Elands River garrison, where Australian forces faced heavy resistance.

•Operations under Lieutenant General Lord Methuen (September 1900 – May 1901) – Rowe’s squadron was attached to Methuen’s No. 2 Column, pursuing Boer fighters across the Transvaal and Orange Free State regions. D Squadron later served as Methuen’s personal bodyguard, a role that highlights their reliability and skill as soldiers.

The Boer War was characterized by long marches, harsh conditions, and intense guerrilla combat. Rowe and his comrades endured severe hardships, including food shortages and exposure to extreme weather. Their resilience and adaptability contributed to the growing reputation of Australian mounted troops.

Return to Civilian Life

Following the war, Rowe returned to Australia and settled in Walgett, New South Wales, where he became a grazier (livestock farmer). In 1906, he married Alice Maude Emily Cochrane, and together they had several children, including:

• Alice I. A. Rowe (born 1907)

• Alfred Ernest James Rowe (born 1909)

• Emily M. Rowe (born 1910)

• Halvena Victoria Rowe (“Vene”) (born 1912) – later married Percy Chamberlain

• Charles W. T. Rowe (1914–1995)

Rowe continued to work in the agricultural sector for the remainder of his life. He was listed in electoral rolls from 1921 to 1936 as a grazier in Walgett, indicating his long-term residence and contributions to the rural economy.

Later Years and Legacy

Alfred Ernest Rowe passed away in 1943 in Queensland, having lived through a period of immense change, including World War I and World War II. His service in D Squadron of the NSW Citizens’ Bushmen represents an important chapter in Australia’s military history, particularly in the development of Australian mounted infantry tactics.

His contribution to the Boer War exemplifies the courage and resilience of Australian troops, foreshadowing the legacy of the Australian Light Horse in later conflicts. His name and service endure in historical records, a testament to his role in Australia’s early military history.

Recognition and Memorialization

Rowe’s participation in the Boer War places him among the early generations of Australians who served in international conflicts. His dedication and sacrifice continue to be honored by his descendants and recognized in Australia’s military heritage.