In 1890, Rhodes sent a group of settlers, known as the Pioneer Column, into Mashonaland where they founded Fort Salisbury (now Harare).

Next to him sat John Willoughby, second-in-command of the original pioneer column, which had taken occupation of Fort Salisbury and Mashonaland.

"There has been heavy fighting in the Mazoe valley and in the Charter and Lornagundi districts around Fort Salisbury."

When they reached Harari Hill, they founded Fort Salisbury (now Harare).

As volunteers arrived, Rhodes came from Fort Salisbury and, after naming himself colonel, rode into combat with the troops.

Fort Salisbury 20th Sept. 1890 My darling Kate, Over two months since last I kissed you, and I am missing your cooking, amongst other things!

Well, all I can say is that whoever is paying that price has never seen Fort Salisbury!

They took the road that Ralph Ballantyne's wagons had recently pioneered from Fort Salisbury to Gubulawayo.

The first of these was appointed in 1890, soon after the Pioneer Column's establishment of Fort Salisbury, the capital, on 12 September that year.

Fort Salisbury (now Harare) was named in honour of the British prime minister, when founded in September 1890.