Meyer de Kock was an ordinary Burgher and respected businessman in Belfast when the South African War (1899-1902) was declared.
He was part of a commando which guarded railway bridges in the Eastern Transvaal.
After the British had captured Pretoria and annexed the Transvaal, he surrendered and laid down his arms.
Early in 1901 he returned to the Eastern Transvaal to persuade burghers still in the field to surrender.
On approaching an encamped commando he was arrested and court martialled for high treason.
He was found guilty and, on 12 February 1901, was executed by firing squad.
