Ten Mills [El Hadar Mill] 1917-2023

[michaeldr]

On Tuesday morning I was invited to join fellow GWF member Eran at a small ceremony at the Ten Mills [El Hadar Mill] site on the Yarkon River [Nahr el Auja]. The following is a translation [with some agreed additions & deletions] of Eran's 'Facebook' post describing this event. 

(Note: any mistakes are mine)

Ten Mills: 1917-2023
by Eran Tearosh

I was present this morning (18.7.2023) at an exciting event on the banks of the Yarkon [Auja River] - the flow of that river's water was returned back to its original course, which had previously fed the El Hadar Mill, better known as 'Esser Tahanot' [Ten Mills]. Some claim that the site is the largest mill facility that existed in the Land of Israel! In an impressive undertaking, the northern part of the mills complex was the project of the Tel Aviv Municipality's Ganei Yehoshua Park, with the assistance of the Fund for Open Areas [part of 'Israel Land Administration'] while the actual field work was carried out by Yehoshua Dray – an archaeologist specialising in the restoration and reconstruction of ancient technologies.

During the First World War, at the end of 1917, the El Hadar Mill and the Hadra Bridge next to it, played a particularly important role. In fact, the use of the mill ceased during the war, when the Ottomans damaged it and the bridge, to prevent the passage of General Allenby's forces over them. The bridge was soon restored and played an important role during 1918, but the mill building was never operational again.

On November 24, 1917, the New Zealand Mounted Rifles [NZMR] Brigade crossed the Yarkon [Nahr el Auja] by the bar near the mouth of the river, and in a short time took control of Sheikh Munis (the southern part of the Ramat Aviv ridge) and Khurbet Hadra (probably the hill in the Revivim neighbourhood, north of the Hadra Bridge. Today at the top of the hill is the 'Pagoda Park'). Following them, several companies of infantry from the 4th and 6th Battalions, Essex Regiment, 161st Infantry Brigade, crossed the river at Jerisha [Seven Mills] and captured Sheikh Munis and Khurbet Hadra, as well as El-Hadar Mill and the Hadra Bridge. The New Zealanders were thinly deployed a little north of the infantry. During the night, the Ottomans concentrated a considerable force [drawn from their 3rd and 7th Divisions] and counter-attacked the British and New Zealand forces north of the river - first at Khurbet Hadra and later Sheikh Munis – and during the morning hours of November 25th, the EEF were forced to retreat back to the southern bank, suffering many casualties. Only at this point did a British artillery unit [Somerset Battery, 18th Brigade, RHA] arrive in the area and help the machine gunners cover the retreat. During the excavation of the mill, a British artillery shell was discovered, still embedded in the wall of the building; (see photo).

A month later, on the night of December 20-21, 1917, Allenby's forces crossed the Yarkon [Nahr el Auja] River once again. This time the task was assigned to the British 52nd (Lowland) Division and the force participating was many times greater than it had been in November. This successful crossing of the Yarkon River is nothing short of a military nonpareil, worthy of a separate article (and maybe even a booklet!). The most important and main characteristic of its success was that it was carried out secretly and silently, crossing the river at three points. To divert the Ottomans' attention from what was happening, two open attacks were carried out east of the successful crossing points, and the largest and most important of these was at Ten Mills, where the Ottomans held a small bridgehead south of the river. The very next day [22nd], the bridge at Hadra was roughly repaired by the British army engineers [410th Company, RE] and played a central role in the EEF activity north of the Yarkon River until the late summer of 1918.

However, the El Hadra Mill was not restored and did not resume operation again. The mill was slowly covered by vegetation and silt, until it was recently rediscovered. In order to allow the work of excavating the site, a temporary dam was erected which channelled the natural flow of water into a by-pass channel. This morning, the Tel Aviv mayor breached that temporary dam. The river water then began to flow back to the mill building and once more through the arches (where the paddle wheels, which turned the mill stones, were previously located), in a way similar to that in which the water had flowed at this place for so many generations until the First World War.

A huge thanks to those involved in the work and a special thanks to my friend Yehoshua Dray, who adds another amazing project to the not-so-short list of his achievements. 
… … … … … ... ... ... ... ... ...

 

A description of the mill and its mechanism

 

The inflow is via six arches

 

The out-flow is via channels which slope downwards to increase the force of the water turning the paddles operating the mill stones

 

Looking down towards the outflow

 

Looking up back towards the inflow

 

The shell which we think is almost certainly from the Somerset Battery, RHA

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For a short video clip go to:- https://www.facebook.com/ganeiyehoshua/videos/3545790199081683/?extid=CL-UNK-UNK-UNK-AN_GK0T-GK1C&mibextid=36u7dV

 

My thanks to Eran for the opportunity to attend this fascinating event - Michael

[michaeldr]

22 hours ago, michaeldr said:

The shell which we think is almost certainly from the Somerset Battery, RHA

 

 

 

 

 

 

I'm beginning to have second thoughts about which battery was responsible for that shell embedded in the wall at Ten Mills.

From the WD of the HQ, NZMR, for November 1917
see pages 6 & 7 here https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1011703/bundled/RCDIG1011703.pdf 

“... … Somerset Battery were ordered to move to a position selected by the Battery Commander and engage any targets offering... … … 
… At 0930 [25/11/17] the Somerset Battery enfiladed the enemy of Khurbet Hadrah... … … 
… During the advance of the Turks on Sheikh Muannis the Somerset Battery did excellent shooting and assisted greatly in delaying the enemy's advance. The Battery remained in action close to the stream until Sheikh Muannis (about 1,400 yards distant) had been occupied by the enemy when they withdrew in good order.”

See also page 9: NZMR Brigade Major S. C. Nicholls' order of 22/11/17
“Somerset Battery will move to a position in the vicinity of Sq.Z.26. and assist crossing the ford, the attack on Sheikh Muannis and Khurbet Hadra, and the bridge.

However, Mjr Nicholls continues...
“One battery 18 pounders and one battery 4.5 howitzers 161st Infantry Brigade, will assist the attack by shelling the enemy at the bridge and the high ground to the north; from the vicinity of Sq,Z.28.b.

So, is it a Somerset shell, or is it from one the 161st's 18-pounder guns?

Edited 22 July , 2023 by michaeldr

[Eran Tearosh]

I'll try to recheck this, but as far as I remember, these guns (54 Division) were located to the south-east of Hadra Bridge, which means - not in the right angle for that specific shell

[michaeldr]

4 minutes ago, Eran Tearosh said:

these guns (54 Division) were located to the south-east of Hadra Bridge, which means - not in the right angle for that specific shell

Thanks Eran; rechecking that will be most helpful

.................................................................................

It's interesting to read 'The Desert Mounted Corps' by Lt-Col. The Hon. R.M.P. Preston DSO [https://www.gutenberg.org/files/54964/54964-h/54964-h.htm]

“The squadron at the mouth of the river, reinforced by another regiment, was ordered to move against the Turkish right, while the remaining regiment of the brigade moved up to the south bank of the Auja at Hadrah. The Somerset Battery R.H.A., the only available artillery, came into action close by, the fire of the guns being directed by the battery commander from a house in Sheikh Muannis, across the river.
At half-past eight, the bridgehead at Hadrah was driven in, and the infantry fell back across the river. At the same time the two companies in Sheikh Muannis, which were moving to the support of the bridgehead, were heavily counter-attacked, and driven back to Jerisheh, where they crossed by the pontoon bridge, covered by the two squadrons of New Zealanders. The led horses of these squadrons were sent back to the ford at the mouth of the river at a gallop. They had to run the gauntlet of close-range rifle and machine-gun fire, but got through with comparatively few casualties, and crossed the river under cover of the squadron there, which then withdrew to the south bank.
The last man to leave Sheikh Muannis was the battery commander. He remained, coolly directing the fire of his guns, till the Turks were in the village, and then made a run for it, swimming the river under fire, and got safely away. His fine work had greatly assisted the retirement of our small force.”

Col Preston makes a statement here which I feel sure I have seen repeated elsewhere;
“The Somerset Battery R.H.A., the only available artillery, came into action close by, ...”

However, the War Diary contradicts this.

Not only were the Somerset guns  joined by the batteries of the 161st, but it even appears that it is they who opened fire first:  
ie. at 0840 rather than 0930, when the Somerset Battery “enfiladed the enemy at Khurbet Hadrah”

Also it is notable that the 161st's guns opened up at 0840; a time which would have coincided with reports coming in of “the bridgehead at Hadrah was driven in, and the infantry fell back across the river.” 

If the position of the 161st's guns can be confirmed then that will certainly help to clarify this question

Likewise it would also be most helpful if anyone has details from the Somerset Battery War Diary for November 1917 giving their position on this morning

 

 

 

[michaeldr]

From https://acms.sl.nsw.gov.au/_transcript/2013/D17572/a5979.htm

Mitchell Library, State Library of New South WalesWalter James Urquhart diary and orders, 24 October-6 December 1917
MLMSS 3050/Item 1 [Transcriber’s note:
Walter James Urquhart was born in 1894 in Brisbane, Queensland. He was the first man to enter the Royal Military College Duntroon. He served as a General Staff Officer with the rank of Major with the Australian and New Zealand Mounted Division (Operations) in the Sinai Peninsula and Palestine 1917-1918. His diary covers the periods 24 October – 31 October 1917 and 17 November – 6 December 1917. … ]

*NB: Caution - this is a transcript and there are errors – some are obvious & some may not be(?) Nevertheless, at first sight it looks like a fairly comprehensive record of this action

24/11/17
0050 Instructions received from Descorps that in order to make enemy believe that we intend to advance further north along the coast Anzacs will today endeavour to secure a bridge-head over Nahr El Auja. Advance to be preceded by bombardment of enemy posts covering crossings selected
0140 Warning order in accordance with above issued – NZMR Bde to carry out this operation – points to be crossed to be ford Z Y18 Mill Z21 and Bridge Z17/18
0750 Following plan for above operations submitted to Descorps: as soon as NZ Bde relieved by infantry demonstration as above to commence. NZ to push strong party over ford in Y18 – this force to then turn east with view to driving enemy from Sheikh Muannis and occupying Khurbet Hadrah. Light Armoured Cars to cooperate. Strong patrol from 2nd LH Bde supported by a battery to also cooperate towards Ferrekhiyeh. Artillery of 161 Bde group to cooperate by firing on enemy known to be in position north of crossing in Z 17 CD.
0905 Orders received from Descorps that 13th battery (Inverness) now with 1st LH Bde is to be ordered up to the front tomorrow 25th. GOC RA Descorps is issuing orders for 2 6 inch hows to be in position in Anzac sector as early as possible, and two 60 prs in right sector to be ready to move to left sector at short notice
0925 Instructions in accordance with above issued to 1st LH Bde, 15th Bd.
1000 orders in accordance with plan sent to Descorps issued. Should operations be successful NZMR Bde will hold a line for the night covering bridge in Z 17 c d (?), Mill in Z 21D and ford at mouth of Nahr Auja.
1045 161st Bde group instructed that when mounted troops have made good their objectives they must be prepared to push forward infantry posts and machine guns to hold crossings.
1130 54th Division instruct that two 6 inch hows of 189th H.B group are now moving to take up position in LEFT SECTOR near Sarona.
1235 54th Division advise that No 1 Section DAC is being ordered to proceed to Selmeh at once for replenishment of 18 pdrs and 4.5 hows. Heavy guns replenish themselves by tractor from T 17 D south of Yebna.
1236 G.O.C. left HQ to establish Advanced DHQ at 070 Z 27B
1300 Situation: NZMR Bde approaching FORD at mouth of Nahr Auja, with our artillery supporting (Somerset Batty R.H.A.) Enemy have opened rifle fire from position covering FORD. Our 4.2 howitzer battery is shelling high ground immediately N of Bridge in Z 17/18.

1400 By 1400 NZMR Bde having crossed ford at mouth of river had occupied Sheik Muannis and advanced well up beach, enemy cavalry retiring Northwards.
1400 2nd Bde report our our guns have shelled Tel El Mukhmar where three troops enemy cavalry were reported this morning but no movement was visible. Now shelling wadi and high ground north of 1st R of Ferrekhiyeh. B.H.Q, at Mulebbis.
1405 NZMR Bde report one squadron of theirs is moving North to guard left flank – 20 enemy observed on Tell Er Rekkeit.
1500 Our 4.2 hows have been shelling enemy post at BRIDGE Z 17/18. NZ Bde report two regts are moving to seize Khurbet Hadrah at 1530. Somerset Batty is moving forward to support this move.
1543 NZMR Bde troops reached Khurbet Hadrah. Troops from NZHR Bde now advanced again from Khurbet Hadrah on Bridge Z 17/18 when enemy post there surrendered – 1 Machine Gun one Lewis Gun and 24 prisoners being taken. 5 other prisoners were taken near Sheikh Muannis. All prisoners belonged 31st Regt, 3rd Div. They stated that the division (1200 bayonets and 2 guns was about Tabsor)
1545 orders giving dispositions for tonight issued: 1/4th Essex Battn holding bridge head Z 17 C/D with two cos. 1/6th Essex battn holding position about Sheikh Muannis to cover crossing in Z 21D with two coys. NZMR Bde to have post of one squadron in front of infantry post at Kh Hadrah, one of a squadron in front of infantry post at Sheikh Muannis and one covering ford at mouth of Nahr El Auja. Squadrons to patrol ground between each other during night. Post at Hadrah to patrol gap between their right and Nahr El Auja. Patrols to be pushed forward at dawn for at least 2 miles. CRE to at once commence making crossing at Mill in Z 21D and cross pits for infantry and crossing in Z 17/C/D to take artillery. Outpost line hitherto held by NZ Bde will also be held by 161st Bde
1600 ICC Bde informed that there is no objection to move of ICC Bde to Ibn Ibrak tomorrow.
1605 NZMR Bde report that squadron demonstration against Ford In Summer F 14B reports enemy M.G. just N.E. of Ford
1610 2nd LH Bde report one squadron pushing forward towards Wadi North of Mulebbis but it is intended to withdraw demonstration troops to Yazur at dusk
GOC went forward from Advanced DHQ bridge Z 17/18 – Bridge had been destroyed by enemy. Advanced DHQ closed.
1720 2nd Bde ordered to withdraw to bivouac – (less troops holding outpost line)
2015 2nd Bde report that during the day little movement was noticed North of Mulebbis though Wadi was held at first in some strength. Battery made good shooting at various indifferent targets.
2100 NZMR Bde informed that after daylight patrols have reported all clear posts of NZ may be reduced to one squadron in all, which will find small standing patrols pushed well out to North and East. Ford In Summer to be investigated and report rendered.
The NZ Bde report that the opposition today at ford at mouth of river consisted of about 20 mounted men who retired rapidly towards El Jelil
2238 54th Division advise that 5th and 7th Essex battns will move to Selmeh tomorrow and come under orders of 161st Bde.
2330 orders from Descorps that operations tomorrow are to be continued with object of consolidating hold on bridgehead already secured, raiding hostile posts at Ferrekiyeh and Keibuta Ford and reconnoitring enemy’s dispositions in area Ras El Ain – El Mirr – Wadi Abu Lejja.
Today general principles for the defence of the line Ludd – Jaffa as laid down by Descorps were issued – the left section of the defence – (Yehudieh exclusive to the sea) is under command of GOC Anzacs and is divided into four subsectors. For details see Appendix.
 

25/11/17
0005 Orders based on those received from Descorps at 2230 issued to all units
0015 In accordance with instructions received from Descorps – 1st LH Bde ordered to march to bivouac area at Ramleh arriving 28th instant. Inverness Battery to join Bde there. Bde will be under GOC 54th Division
0445 NZMR Bde report enemy strength uncertain advancing towards Khurbet Hadrah. A good deal of rifle fire.
0640 NZMR report enemy strength several hundred on high ground north of Khurbet Hadrah. One regiment is pushing forward from Ford Y 18C against enemy’s right flank. Battery getting into position to shell enemy. Remainder WMR moving down to Bridge to support outpost squadron

The date/time of this next entry are not clear at all

27^th0930 ICC report 11/2 battn Rantieh Ras El Ain to Mulebbis. Can see batty shelling 54th – It is south of Rantieh

0635 161st Bde report “Mounted troops have withdrawn and enemy occupying their position". A good deal of rifle fire. 270th Bde RFA orders it to come into action in yesterdays positions
0715 Enemy reported to have half company extended across squares X 27 28 29 and about ½ company in support. Two enemy guns have fired.
0750 NZ report Enemy holding building and wood east of Khurbet Hadrah in strength square Z 12 B. NZ ask for assistance of artillery of 161st Bde.
0820 2nd LH Bde ordered to move with battery and one regiment up to neighbourhood of PT 275 ready to deal with any enemy move in the direction of Mulebbis.
0825 NZMR Bde report enemy entrenching in X 31 D. 1000 enemy reported around El Velil.
0830 NZMR Bde report enemy have captured Khurbet Hadrah
0840 161st Bde report: Khurbet Hadrah and vicinity being shelled by one enemy battery. Two coys and one squadron holding Khurbet Hadrah 2 ½ coys. and one squadron holding Sheikh Muannis. Situation satisfactory.
0852 161st Infantry Brigade report Khurbet Hadrah position heavily shelled by three enemy batteries including heavies. Infantry have fallen back slightly but are holding on north of river. Our artillery now in action. 4th Essex will counter attack with whole battalion. 6th Essex will counter attack from Sheikh Muannis.
0920 ICC Bde HQ at Q 1 B
0930 NZMR Bde report two enemy guns 900 yards NE of Tel El Rekkeit. One compy. enemy infantry about Rekkeit.
1000 Instructions received from Descorps that Corps Cmdr. does not wish infantry to go beyond the line Khurbet Hadrah – Sheikh Muannis but high ground covering the Ford at mouth of Nahr El Auja and also Sheikh Muannis must be strongly held. Infantry not to become heavily involved in a position from which it would be difficult to withdraw. Our role is still that of a demonstration.
1000 ICC Bde ordered to have one battalion standing to ready to move at a moments notice .
1015 Report received from 161st Infantry Bde timed 0920 that 4th Essex are still holding high ground covering bridge in Z 17 C?D.
1015 Report recd from NZMR Bde timed 0954 that strong force of enemy are advancing along flat ground between Khurbet Hadrah and Sheikh Muannis, also from direction of El Makkras. They are apparently preparing to attack Sheikh Muannis timed 1012 and FORD square Z 21 B
1030 161st Infy Bde report following from Sheikh Muannis – Large bodies believed to be cavalry and infantry advancing from NE distance about 2000 yards. Our artillery warned but range is long.
1030 observation post half mile West of Mulebbis report enemy convoy moving towards Jerisheh. Artillery advised
1030 NZMR Bde report Sheikh Muannis has been captured by enemy.
1040 Aeroplane report recd: Concentration of troops approx 2000 – 3000 in A 28 B (084) 200 men at JILJULEH and 500 at Kefr Saba.
1055 ICC Bde ordered to move battalion which is standing to to Selmeh at once to be in Divisional Reserve.
1100 161st Infy Bde advise: our artillery ordered to shell Sheikh Muannis
1100 2nd LH Bde report no enemy movement visible North or East of Mulebbis. 5th Regt holds usual outpost line with patrols in Mulebbis. 6th Regt on way to join Bde which is about a mile North of 275 (BHQ.) Ayrshire Batty. will seek target.
1225 orders issued as follows: 161st Bde will hold on to present line at all costs. BGC 2nd LH Bde to move up one regt in rear of bridge in Z 17 C/D to replace Auckland M.R. who will rejoin their Brigade. 2nd LH Bde will be prepared to support the Infantry line in case of attack – from Z 30 D up to and excluding the Nahr El Barideh with his whole brigade. NZMR Bde will support the infantry line thence to the sea with whole of Bde.
1230 Report received from 2nd LH Bde that observation post half mile W of Mulebbis reports at 1200 – enemy convoy moving towards JERISHEH.
1255 Report received from 161st Bde: Situation at 1115 – Enemy in possession of Kh Hadrah and Muannis. Strong Turkish attack now developing against the Ford. 4th and 6th Essex now in course of reoccupying former positions S of river. Am not certain whether bridgeheads at Dam and Mill are still held. Turkish force actually seen in numbers 5000 approx.
1330 Descorps advise 7th Mtd Bde will move at once to Ayun Kara and on arrival will come under orders of Anzac Mounted Division.
1335 2nd LH Bde report situation unchanged – 6th LH Regt has arrived from 54th Div
1410 Situation is quieter our guns opening fire when favourable targets appear. Our artillery is located as follows: OP at Z 30. Howitzer Batty 4.2 and 6B Field Batty 18 prs. 270th bde F25C – 2nd Field batty J 6 C. 6 inch Hows J 2 C 13 pr battery 750 yds south of Summeil. and LH bde 13 prs. in support vicinity Point 275. Inverness Batty will on arrival be placed in reserve in H18
1440 161st Infy Bde report received timed 1305 that 5th and 7th Essex Regts and one section R.E. arrived at Sarona.
1505 Report received from 7th Mtd Bde that they march off at 1445
1540 Orders sent to 7th Mtd Bde that they will remain in vicinity Ayun Kara until further orders.
1645 Orders giving dispositions for tonight issued to all units: No 1 Sub-section held by ICC Bde less 1 Battn in Div Reserve at Selmeh. No 2 Subsection 2nd LH Bde. No 3 Subsection & No 4 by 161st Infy Bde. 2nd LH Bde to remain in present position (less regt holding line in No 2 subsection) ready to support in case of attack in either No 2 or No 3 Subsection. NZMR Bde as soon as infy have taken over line in No 4 subsection will be concentrated in rear of present BHQ and be ready to support in case of attack on No 4 Subsector. Inverness battery will be in DHQ reserve in present position. CRA left Sector to have night lines laid out to cover crossings. 161st Bde to strongly entrench line they are now holding. Wadi Bank to be carefully patrolled. Patrols to be sent N and NE by 2nd LH and ICC Bdes as soon as it is light enough to see. Whole force to stand to arms at 0400 from which time reserves will be ready to move at ½ hours notice.
1730 2nd LH Bde report situation unchanged at Bde shelled just before dark by very long range gun but no casualties. 7th Regt relieved AMR. 5th Regt holding outpost line 6th Regt in reserve.
1745 ICC Bde report situation 1700: No movement to north of our line. Large enemy convoy observed moving E from a point NE of 265
1955 7th Mtd Bde report their HG are located ¾ mile N of Ayun Kara.
[1955 Orders recd from Descorps that 7th Mtd Bde north of Avun Kara will not be moved without reference to Corps HQ. Anzacs to warn 1st LH bde to be prepared to move at short notice after morning watering.]
2000 Orders from Descorps to place one squadron at disposal of GOC 54th Div tomorrow and until further orders for patrolling in place of the regiment which rejoined 2nd LH Bde today (6th Regt)
2027 Advice received from Descorps that 1 section 60 pdrs is leaving Safiriveh at 0500 tomorrow for left section where it will come under orders GOC Anzacs
2050 161st Bde report relief of two Battns in front line by remaining two battns who arrived today completed
2020 Above sent in cipher by wireless to 1st LH Bde
2315 5th Essex Regt. holding No 3 sub-sector report movement enemy cavalry estimated 50 towards bridge Z 17 C D

Edited 22 July , 2023 by michaeldr

[stevenbecker]

Mate,

Interesting, the NZ account is a little different here.

The CMR write in its history page 160

The Artillery was no help, Just as the Khurbet Hadrah position was being evacuted some guns of the 161 Bde and our own Somerset Battery opened fire too late to influence the battle"

The evacuation of Sheikh Muannis was most skilfully carried out with the help of the Somerset Battery firing from the south side

Then we have an account in their history by the Wellington MR

Around 0815 the British Infantry under shell fire retired, by the history goes on " Hadrah had fallen at 0830 and up to that time time no artillery support had been given but at that hour the Somerset Battery shelled the advancing Turks and a few minutes later the Batteries of the 161 Bde open up.

The Aucklands (AMR) don't say anything 

The History of the NZ Mounted Bde HQ only mentions (page 162-163)

"The Turkish attack came in at 0830 around Khurbet Hadrah and we had no support from our Artillery, after the village and bridge fell, the Somerset Battery came into action, assisted by the guns of the 161 Bde.

S.B

 

Edited 22 July , 2023 by stevenbecker

[michaeldr]

Yesterday's post was rather long, so I have tried to summarise the most important points regarding the bridge & mill during 21st November - 26th November 1917.
If anyone has one, then it would be very useful to have access to a map using the references quoted

Actions & Artillery positions mentioned by 
Major Walter James Urquhart MiD (GSO III, HQ, Anzac Mntd Div)

21/11/17
1655  NZMR Bde report enemy still occupying high ground covering bridge over Nahr El Auja 
(at) Z 17 d. Our battery shelled enemy positions from 1230-1400

23/11/17
1750  orders issued for 2 battns 161 Inf Bde supported by Btty RFA (&) one Bttty 4.5 how. to take over that section of front line at present held by NZMR Bde.

24/11/17
0750  ….Artillery of 161 Inf Bde group to cooperate by firing on enemy known to be in position north of crossing in Z 17 c-d 
[Question: is this the Hadra Bridge? (The Mill's map ref is previously given as Z 21 d)]
1300  NZMR Bde approaching FORD at mouth of Nahr Auja, with our artillery supporting (Somerset Batty, RHA)
1500  NZ Bde report two regts are moving to seize Khurbet Hadra at 1530. Somerset Batty is moving forward to support move.
1543  NZMR Bde troops reach Khurbet Hadra. Troops from MZMR Bde now advancing from Khurbet Harda on Bridge Z 17/18 when enemy post surrendered – 1 machine gun, 1 Lewis gun & 24 prisoners being taken. … … All prisoners belonged to 31st Regt, 3rd Div. 
1545  orders giving dispositions for tonight issued: 1/4th Essex Battn holding bridge head Z 17 c/d with 2 companies. … … … CRE to at once commence making Mill in Z 21 d and pits for infantry and crossing in Z 17 c-d to take artillery. Outpost line hitherto held by NZ Bde will also be held by 161st Inf Bde
1610  GOC went forward from Advanced DHQ bridge Z 17/18 – Bridge had been destroyed by enemy

25/11/17
0635  161st Inf Bde report “Mounted troops have withdrawn and enemy occupying their position". A good deal of rifle fire. 270th Bde RFA [54th Div.] orders it to come into action in yesterday's positions 
0640  NZMR report enemy strength several hundred on high ground north of Khurbet Hadrah. 
One regiment is pushing forward from Ford Y 18C against enemy’s right flank. Battery getting into position to shell enemy. Remainder WMR moving down to Bridge to support outpost squadron 
0852  161st Inf Brigade report Khurbet Hadrah position heavily shelled by three enemy batteries including heavies. Infantry have fallen back slightly but are holding on north of river. Our artillery now in action. 4th Essex will counter attack with whole battalion. 6th Essex will counter attack from Sheikh Muannis. 
1105  Report received from 161st Inf Bde timed 0920 that 4th Essex are still holding high ground covering bridge in Z 17 c-d
1225  orders issued as follows: 161st Inf Bde will hold on to present line at all costs. 
BGC 2nd LH Bde to move up one regt in rear of bridge in Z 17 c-d to replace Auckland M.R. who will rejoin their Brigade. 2nd LH Bde will be prepared to support the Infantry line in case of attack – from Z 30 D up to and excluding the Nahr El Barideh with his whole brigade. NZMR Bde will support the infantry line thence to the sea with whole of Bde. 
1255  Report received from 161st Inf Bde: Situation at 1115 – Enemy in possession of Kh Hadrah and Muannis. Strong Turkish attack now developing against the Ford. 4th and 6th Essex now in course of reoccupying former positions S of river. Am not certain whether bridgeheads at Dam and Mill are still held. Turkish force actually seen in numbers 5000 approx. 
1410  Situation is quieter our guns opening fire when favourable targets appear. 
Our artillery is located as follows:- 
OP at Z 30., 
Howitzer Batty 4.2 and 'B' Batty 18 pdrs., 270th RFA Bde, F 25 c
2nd Field Batty J 6 c. [which battery is this ?]
6 inch Hows J 2 c 
13 pdr battery 750 yds south of Summeil. [which battery is this? Somerset???]
and LH Bde 13 pdrs. in support vicinity Point 275. 
Inverness Batty will on arrival be placed in reserve in H 18
2050  161st Inf Bde report relief of two Battns in front line by remaining two battns who arrived today completed [ 4th & 6th Essex, replaced by 5th & 7th Essex]
2315  5th Essex Regt. holding No 3 sub-sector report movement enemy cavalry estimated 50 towards bridge Z 17 c-d.

26/11/17
0435  161st Inf Bde report patrol of 8 enemy approached bridge Z 17 d. One killed remainder dispersed 
1230  Report received from 161st Infy Bde that bridge Z 17 d was shelled with 77mm guns at 1030 
1245  Report received from 161st Inf Bde that small parties of enemy were approaching 
bridge Z 17 d. Artillery have been warned 
1415 161st Inf Bde report patrol reports small post dug in about 150 yds north of M in Mill square Z 22 A 
1720  2nd LH Bde report BHQ shelled by 5.9 at 1700. Major Bryant MC cmdg. Ayrshire Batty killed. 1 OR killed 1 wounded. Shelling was observed from DHQ Tower 

 

I hope that this helps

regards, Michael

Edited 23 July , 2023 by michaeldr

[michaeldr]

24 minutes ago, michaeldr said:

If anyone has one, then it would be very useful to have access to a map using the references quoted

Until a better copy turns up this will have to do (but still hoping for better  )

[Eran Tearosh]

I'm working a few hours on this. In the meanwhile:

This is a section of the military map. It's a February 1918 reprint, but it's the same map they were holding in November 1917.

Z 17 c-d is Hadra Bridge

Z 21 d is Jerisheh (Seven Mills)

I'll add things shortly

 

Eran

 

Edited 23 July , 2023 by Eran Tearosh

[michaeldr]

Many thanks Eran - you have found a much clearer version of the map. I've had another look at my post of earlier this morning and now added some notes re map ref., etc., etc

Actions & Artillery positions mentioned by

Major Walter James Urquhart MiD (GSO III, HQ, Anzac Mntd Div)

 

21/11/17

1655 NZMR Bde report enemy still occupying high ground covering bridge over Nahr El Auja (at) Z 17 d Hadra Bridge. Our battery shelled enemy positions from 1230-1400

23/11/17

1750 orders issued for 2 battns 161 Inf Bde supported by Btty RFA (&) one Bttty 4.5 how. to take over that section of front line at present held by NZMR Bde.

24/11/17

0750 ….Artillery of 161 Inf Bde group to cooperate by firing on enemy known to be in position north of crossing in Z 17 c-d (Ten Mills/Hadra Bridge)

1300 NZMR Bde approaching FORD at mouth of Nahr Auja, with our artillery supporting (Somerset Batty, RHA)

1500 NZ Bde report two regts are moving to seize Khurbet Hadra at 1530. Somerset Batty is moving forward to support move.

1543 NZMR Bde troops reach Khurbet Hadra. Troops from MZMR Bde now advancing from Khurbet Hadra on Bridge Z 17/18 Hadra Bridge next to Ten Mills when enemy post surrendered - 1 machine gun, 1 Lewis gun & 24 prisoners being taken. … … All prisoners belonged to 31st Regt, 3rd Div.

1545 orders giving dispositions for tonight issued: 1/4th Essex Battn holding bridge head Z 17 c/d Ten Mills/Hadra Bridge with 2 companies. … … …

CRE to at once commence making Mill in Z 21 d Jerisheh and pits for infantry, and crossing in Z 17 c-d Ten Mills/Hadra Bridge to take artillery. Outpost line hitherto held by NZ Bde will also be held by 161st Inf Bde

1610 GOC went forward from Advanced DHQ bridge Z 17/18 – Bridge (Hadra Bridge) had been destroyed by enemy

25/11/17

0635 161st Inf Bde report “Mounted troops have withdrawn and enemy occupying their position". A good deal of rifle fire. 270th Bde RFA [54^th Div.] orders it to come into action in yesterdays positions

0640 NZMR report enemy strength several hundred on high ground north of Khurbet Hadrah. One regiment is pushing forward from Ford Y 18 c (mouth of river) against enemy’s right flank. Battery getting into position to shell enemy. Remainder WMR moving down to Bridge to support outpost squadron

0852 161st Inf Brigade report Khurbet Hadrah position heavily shelled by three enemy batteries including heavies. Infantry have fallen back slightly but are holding on north of river. Our artillery now in action 4th Essex will counter attack with whole battalion. 6th Essex will counter attack from Sheikh Muannis.

1015 Report received from 161st Inf Bde timed 0920 that 4th Essex are still holding high ground covering bridge in Z 17 c-d Hadra Bridge

1225 orders issued as follows: 161st Inf Bde will hold on to present line at all costs.

BGC 2nd LH Bde to move up one regt in rear of bridge in Z 17 c-d Hadra Bridge to replace Auckland M.R. who will rejoin their Brigade. 2nd LH Bde will be prepared to support the Infantry line in case of attack – from Z 30 D up to and excluding the Nahr El Barideh with his whole brigade. NZMR Bde will support the infantry line thence to the sea with whole of Bde.

1255 Report received from 161st Inf Bde: Situation at 1115 – Enemy in possession of Kh Hadrah and Muannis. Strong Turkish attack now developing against the Ford. 4th and 6th Essex now in course of reoccupying former positions S of river. Am not certain whether bridgeheads at Dam and Mill are still held. [NB: This is still not clear to me – Jerisheh or Ten Mills?]

Turkish force actually seen in numbers 5000 approx.

1410 Situation is quieter our guns opening fire when favourable targets appear.

Our artillery is located as follows:-

OP at Z 30.,

Howitzer Batty 4.2 and 'B' Batty 18 pdrs., 270th RFA Bde, F 25 c

2nd Field Batty J 6 c. [which battery is this ?]

6 inch Hows J 2 c

13 pdr battery 750 yds south of Summeil. [which battery is this? Somerset???] This is map ref J 1 c, or J 7 a

and LH Bde 13 pdrs. in support vicinity Point 275. Map ref J 10 d

Inverness Batty will on arrival be placed in reserve in H18

2050 161st Inf Bde report relief of two Battns in front line by remaining two battns who arrived today completed [ 4^th & 6^th Essex, replaced by 5^th & 7^th Essex]

2315 5th Essex Regt. holding No 3 sub-sector report movement enemy cavalry estimated 50 towards bridge Z 17 c-d Hadra Bridge

26/11/17

0435 161st Inf Bde report patrol of 8 enemy approached bridge Z 17 d. Hadra Bridge.

One killed remainder dispersed

1230 Report received from 161st Infy Bde that bridge Z 17 d Hadra Bridge was shelled with 77mm guns at 1030

1245 Report received from 161st Inf Bde that small parties of enemy were approaching

bridge Z 17 d. Hadra Bridge Artillery have been warned

1415 161st Inf Bde report patrol reports small post dug in about 150 yds north of M in Mill square Z 22 A Jerisheh

1720 2nd LH Bde report BHQ shelled by 5.9 at 1700. Major Bryant MC cmdg. Ayrshire Batty killed. 1 OR killed & 1 wounded. Shelling was observed from DHQ Tower
 

 

 

Edited 23 July , 2023 by michaeldr

[michaeldr]

35 minutes ago, michaeldr said:

24/11/17 - 1610 GOC went forward from Advanced DHQ bridge Z 17/18 – Bridge (Hadra Bridge) had been destroyed by enemy

I presume that is a ref to Col (temp Mjr Gen) Sir E W C Chaytor 

[michaeldr]

A brief diversion from the current task of  looking for the Battery which fired the shell now lodged in the wall at Ten Mills.

... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ...

3 hours ago, michaeldr said:

24/11/1917

1545  ... ... ... CRE to at once commence making Mill in Z 21 d [Jerisheh] and pits for infantry [NB: this should read 'fit for infantry']

While this is the first time that we are discussing the Ten Mills & Hadra Bridge excavation and reconstruction, it is not the first time by any means that the crossing of the Auja has been discussed here on the GWF

This is David Porter's attachment to his post of 18 January 2013
 [seen here https://www.greatwarforum.org/topic/157418-52nd-lowland-division-–-crossing-the-auja/page/2/#comment-1851556]
This is the pontoon bridge at Jerisheh (map ref  Z-21-d) – see also David's attachment 

 

David notes that unfortunately the sketch is now (2013) missing from the WD
However a sometime GWF member using the name Vince, reproduced and then quickly deleted such a sketch,
but not before I managed to get a crop of it

[Eran Tearosh]

Michael – What a great find that "Actions & Artillery positions mentioned by 
Major Walter James Urquhart MiD (GSO III, HQ, Anzac Mntd Div)"!

As to the 'strange' entry (November 27^th) – Looks like a simple glitch of text to the wrong place. It relates to the Turkish attack on Wilhelma. I'll relate to the rest in a minute.

Steve – Thanks. I already looked into quite a few NZ sources, including the 3 regimental histories. Lt.-Col. Powles's 'The New Zealanders in Sinai and Palestine' doesn't add a thing regarding the artillery. Same thing with Terry Kinloch's book 'Devils on Horses'.  

___________________________________

The discussion was about the artillery during the first crossing of the Auja River, trying to determine whether the shell that can still be seen in the Mill's wall is of the Somerset Battery, or perhaps one of the batteries of the 54^th Division. Of course, this is an opportunity to have a closer look at the wider aspect of the artillery during this action. Michael – We've been doing the work parallelly… The record you found is great and it does add a few details to the general picture, but mostly on the artillery.

You asked about the following, but bear in mind that this relates to the afternoon hours of November 25^th, after things calmed down a bit. So far, I haven't found details of artillery locations on November 24^th. From what I found so far, the 54^th Division's R.F.A. Brigade involved on November 24^th was CCCLXX (270) Brigade:

OP at Z 30. – I guess that O.P. stands for Observation Point. Z 30. Is Bulfin Hill (Today within Bnei-Brak)

Howitzer Batty 4.2 and 'B' Batty 18 pdrs., 270th RFA Bde, F 25 c – The location is a little east of Bulfin Hill.

2nd Field Batty J 6 c. [which battery is this?] – The location is a little south of Bulfin Hill. I don't know which Battery this is.

6-inch Hows J 2 c – location is a bit north of Sarona. Somewhere near Arlozorov St.

13 pdr battery 750 yds south of Summeil. [which battery is this? Somerset???] This is map ref J 1 c, or J 7 a – You're right on the location. It's not the Somerset Battery – they had 18-pounders and belonged to the ANZAC Division, not 54^th.

LH Bde 13 pdrs. in support vicinity of Point 275. Map ref J 10 d – You're pointing at Dahr Selmeh (Point 279). That's the high ridge in today's Givataim. I took the Society to that place during one of the Field-Tours a few years ago. I don't know if this Battery belonged to the 54^th Div. or to the ANZAC Div.

Inverness Batty will on arrival be placed in reserve in H18 – Center of today's Tel-Aviv. This battery belonged to the ANZAC Div.

 

As to understanding the different 54^th Division's batteries – I found it very confusing. Maybe this link can help a bit: https://www.longlongtrail.co.uk/cclxx-cclxxi-cclxxii-howitzer-and-cclxxiii-brigades-of-the-royal-field-artillery-54th-divisional-artillery/

Another option is to go to Wikipedia. As I wrote – very confusing.

 

__________________________________________

 

I found several references to the CCLXX (270) Brigade R.F.A. Following are a few sources:

 

In the BOH (Falls & Becke), Vol. 2, Part I, pages 214-215 relate to November 24th:

"The heavy artillery could not be brought up in time, but the 270^th Brigade R.F.A. (less one battery) of the 54^th Division was temporarily transferred to the A. & N.Z. Mounted Division." An interesting remark states that the 3^rd Light Armoured Motor Battery (LAMB) was involved in the capture of Hadra Bridge – Probably by fire from the left (South) bank.

Pages 215-217 relate to November 25^th:

"… and his (Turk) pursuit was checked by the fire of the Somerset Battery…" (page 216). A few lines down we find: "In this case also the artillery did good service in checking the Turkish pursuit, particularly the Somerset Battery, the commander of which, Major M. Clowes, remained on the right bank observing for his battery until the last moment, and had to swim across".  At the bottom of page 216 we find: "The 270^th Brigade R.F.A. was moved to bivouac after the crossing, and arrived on the scene of action the following day too late to be of much service, the whole artillery defence thus resting upon a single horse-artillery battery" (meaning the Somerset Battery).

 

On the Wikipedia page of the 1st Suffolk Artillery Volunteers Corps, I found the following: 

"Nahr el Auja  

During the night of 23/24 November, the pursuing ANZAC Mounted Division was ordered to seize a bridgehead across the Nahr el Auja supported by A and C/270 Btys. The two batteries moved up rapidly and began bombarding the bridge while the New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade forded the river and attacked from the far side 'in a most spectacular charge over a little hill behind the bridge. It was a capital battle' in the words of an officer at 270 Bde HQ. The Turks counter-attacked the following day and 270 Bde was recalled from its bivouacs to re-occupy its positions of the previous day, which A and C/270 managed in 70 minutes from the first alarm. From an observation point known as Z30, effective fire was brought down on the Turks. Thereafter, 270 Bde became the basis of an artillery group positioned to support ANZAC Mtd Division along the river".

Notes there relate to Lt-Col J.D. Sainsbury's book, The Hertfordshire Batteries, Royal Field Artillery: An Illustrated History 1908–1920, pages 69-70. I don't have this book, so if someone has it – please (Can buy it for 10£, but shipping fees are 15£ more… Ouch).

 

Next is Alan Smith's Allenby's Gunners. From this book, I couldn't really find anything significant. There are several references to the Somerset Battery, but nothing that helps us.

 

The 54^th Division creates a challenge for research, as a Divisional History was never published. However, most of the Division's battalions are mentioned in their Regimental Histories, which is not great, but better than nothing. The exception to this is the Essex Regiment, as four of its Territorial battalions (4^th, 5^th, 6^th and 7^th) formed The Essex Territorial Infantry Brigade – The 161^st Brigade of the 54^th Division, which published, as a part of the series of the Essex Regiment Histories, a book of their own, by John Burrows. A chapter is dedicated to The Combat of the 'Auja (Starting p. 254). As far as the artillery is concerned, this is what I found there, first the general description:

P. 254, referring to November 24^th: "The 270^th Brigade, R.F.A., were disposed on the south bank to give support to the Anzacs".

P. 255: "The situation seemed so quiescent that the 270^th Brigade, R.F.A, were informed that they bivouac".

P. 255, referring to November 25^th: "The 270^th Brigade, R.F.A., were also ordered into action, but before they were able to unlimber the enemy (8 a.m.) attacked Kh. Hadra with a force estimated between 4,000 and 5,000…". A few lines down: "The Aucklanders escaped being cut off by galloping over the sea ford under the cover of the machine guns of their Brigade and the fire of the Somerset Battery"

After the general description, each battalion wrote its own part. First the 4^th Essex:

P. 257, referring to November 24^th: "About 3 p.m., after a few short bursts of shell-fire from the horse artillery, the Anzacs galloped across the ford…". A few lines down: "The artillery withdrew to Sarona".

P. 258, referring to November 25^th: "The artillery were recalled to support the infantry, although short of ammunition, and commenced to shell Kh. Hadra. An artillery observation post was established with "A" Company, 1/4^th Essex, on a hill known as Z30, and that company was then pushed up to the Mill and Bridge. A counter-attack was decided upon with artillery support".  Further down the page: "For some unexplained reason, communication by flag signal between the two battalions and with the artillery broke down".

Strangely, the 6^th Essex, even though giving a much more detailed account, almost doesn't mention the artillery:

P. 262, referring to November 25^th: "Then large numbers of the enemy were observed approaching from the north-east and it gave us a certain amount of pleasure to see the Field Artillery shelling them and dropping their 18-pounder shells right among the masses of Turks who were coming over high ground on our front well out of rifle fire".

Eran

Edited 23 July , 2023 by Eran Tearosh

[stevenbecker]

The shell appears to be at a flat tragrety, not an indirect fire angle of a HE from a How

Were our Batteries firing at what angle of fire from Bulfin Hill

I am unsure by your photos where the shell lodged in what wall or at what angle 

Could it be one of the many shells fired by the Turks at us?

[Eran Tearosh]

Steve,

The shell is definitely British, as it was shot from the south and stuck to a side wall of the Mill facing north. 

I'm no artillery expert, so I'm not sure if it is from indirect fire or a flat trajectory. It seems more likely to come from the Somerset Battery, but as we don't know where the 270^th Brigade R.F.A. were positioned on November 24th - I can't roll off the possibility that the specific shell was shot by them. 

Bulfin Hill is probably not relevant - If the 270th were there also on the 24th, then the angle is a bit problematic, although possible. However, it is possible that the shell was shot on November 25th, as a part of holding back the Turks on the north bank, after the Essex's retreated. Later, the Turks did cross and created a small bridgehead on the south bank. While writing this, I realize that the shell might have been shot even later, maybe even during the spectacular crossing by the 52nd (Lowland) Division a few weeks later. 

Eran

[michaeldr]

7 hours ago, Eran Tearosh said:

13 pdr battery 750 yds south of Summeil. [which battery is this? Somerset???] This is map ref J 1 c, or J 7 a – You're right on the location. It's not the Somerset Battery – they had 18-pounders and belonged to the ANZAC Division, not 54^th.

Eran,

Not always the most reliable repository of wisdom, however Wiki has 
“The batteries were still equipped with 18 pounders when the new brigade was organised but were re-equipped with 13-pounders (four per battery) in time for the Third Battle of Gaza at the end of October 1917” with a ref provided to Farndale's page 95 

 

The Brigade War Diary (very regrettably, November 1917 is missing) can be seen here https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1015792/bundled/RCDIG1015792.pdf and on page 3 there is a ref to their 13-pounders: “9/10/17 - Calibration of 13 pdr gun”

..........................................................................................................................

 

 

Steve, the shell is lodged in a right angle which faces South. 
I think that I have got the position correct here, but Eran will be able to confirm. 
There is no way that it could have been fired from the North (Ottoman side), 
however, Eran is correct in his warning that it may not necessarily date from the end of November 1917.

 

[stevenbecker]

Mates,

Cheers makes more sence now.

The shell in interesting to this old Gunnery man as how it struck.

A Battery firing at distance would be using indirect fire, while a flat trajectory is more likely for a close firing battery.

Of cause Eran is right, it may not relate to this action at all, and we maybe chancing rabbits.

S.B

[michaeldr]

6 hours ago, michaeldr said:

The Brigade War Diary (very regrettably, November 1917 is missing) can be seen here https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/awm-media/collection/RCDIG1015792/bundled/RCDIG1015792.pdf and on page 3 there is a ref to their 13-pounders: “9/10/17 - Calibration of 13 pdr gun”

Looking back at the previous month's (September 1917) WD here, then details are given in the entry for 9/9/17 

"Exchanged Guns and Wagons for 13 pdr guns & wagons of South African F. A."

[stevenbecker]

What I find also interesting as we talk about this action, was two days later the main Ottoman attack came in to the East, hitting the Camel Bde and 2 LH Bde.

There were no guns to support either Bde, as they were all on the Auja

This main attack by the newly arrived 20th Div, with others, was surpose to cut off the forces on the Auja

This did not happen due to our defence 

S.B