An eye-witness account of the invasion of Java in 1811 — the diary of Lt. W.G.A. Fielding
Edited by C. Skinner and published in 1971, this document presents the diary of Lieutenant W.G.A. Fielding, offering a granular, ground-level view of the British East India Company’s 1811 invasion of Java. The text chronicles the expedition’s journey from Bengal to the decisive Battle of Meester Cornelis, emphasizing the logistical complexities and tactical realities faced by the invading forces.
Summary
The expedition departed Bengal in March 1811, with Fielding embarking on the transport ship ‘Mary’ alongside dismounted members of the Governor-General’s Body Guard (p. 1). The journey to Malacca was fraught with delays and logistical complaints, including cramped quarters on the ‘Mary’ and concerns over the competence of the convoy’s commanders (pp. 1–3). Upon arrival in Malacca, the force waited for Lord Minto and the rest of the fleet, enduring a wet season that caused sickness among the troops stationed at Tanjong Clin (p. 4).
The landing at Batavia occurred in early August without opposition, followed by a series of engagements leading to the Battle of Meester Cornelis on 26 August (p. 12). Fielding details the assault on the fortified position, noting the heavy casualties and the chaotic nature of the fighting, including the explosion of a powder magazine in Redoubt No. 1 (p. 23). The British victory resulted in the capture of Governor-General Janssens and the dispersal of the Franco-Dutch army, though Fielding notes the enemy’s retreat was often orderly until cavalry intervention (p. 24).
Following the surrender, Fielding records the occupation of Buitenzorg and the subsequent return of Lord Minto to Calcutta in October 1811 (p. 40). The diary concludes with Fielding’s return to Bengal and his subsequent career, noting his eventual retirement and death in 1868 (p. 43). Editor C. Skinner provides extensive footnotes clarifying troop compositions and historical figures, such as General Daendels and the specific regiments involved in the campaign (pp. 44–46).
Key Findings
- The expeditionary force comprised over 12,000 men, including British infantry regiments, Bengal Volunteers, and artillery units, with specific strength figures detailed in Appendix A (p. 44).
- During the Battle of Meester Cornelis, British casualties included 93 men killed or wounded, with specific officers like Lt. Monro and Capt. Cameron listed as casualties (p. 18).
- The transport ship ‘Mary’ had between-decks space of only 3 feet 11 inches, significantly lower than other ships of similar tonnage, causing discomfort for the troops (p. 1).
- The Franco-Dutch defensive position at Meester Cornelis featured 17,000 men and approximately 250 pieces of large calibre artillery, yet was defeated by a British force of fewer than 5,000 men (p. 25).
- Local administration under Governor-General Daendels was characterized by summary punishment and harsh discipline, which Fielding notes was universally detested by the European inhabitants (p. 30).
- The campaign concluded with the surrender of General Janssens at Semarang, where the town was taken with minimal loss, contrasting with the heavy fighting at Cornelis (p. 38).
Conclusion
Skinner’s editorial work frames Fielding’s diary as a vital primary source that bridges the gap between high-level strategic planning and the gritty reality of colonial warfare. The text underscores the efficiency of the British East India Company’s military organization while highlighting the human costs and logistical hurdles inherent in long-distance expeditions. Ultimately, the document serves as a definitive record of the transition of power in Java, preserving the perspectives of the officers who executed the invasion.
Context
- The diary is held in the India Office Library, providing access to records regarding the Honourable Company’s army.
- The publication highlights the role of the Bengal Presidency in projecting British power across the Indian Ocean during the Napoleonic Wars.