Helvetia was a major ‘stop-over’ for coaches travelling from Pretoria, Lydenburg and Lake Chrissie in the 1890’s, and consisted of a trading post and hotel.

During the South African War (1899-1902) the British established a major base on the site. This base consisted of a main camp and four hills in the immediate area which were manned by British troops, together with artillery and a 4.7 inch Naval Gun called the Lady Roberts. 

The total compliment of British forces was 350, under the command of Major Cotton.

In the early hours of 29 December 1900, Boer Generals Muller and Viljoen mounted an attack on the camps.

When dawn broke and the mist lifted, the Boers realised that they had taken all camps otherthan the camp on Kings Koppie, where Colour Sergeant Johnson was making a stand.

The battle was over in a few hours with the British losses being 11 killed, 29 wounded and 250 taken prisoner.

What followed is a story on its own – court martial, disorderly soldiers, and more.