Jack the Baboon: He Worked As A Railway Signal Operator For Nine Years And Never Made A Mistake

Railway history may not be the first thing people are interested in reading, but few railway stories are as extraordinary and heartwarming as that of Jack the baboon, whose exceptional service and loyalty to his human companion, James "Jumper" Wide, left an indelible mark on the Cape Town–Port Authority Railway service. This unique partnership, born out of necessity and ingenuity, began in the late 19th century and became a testament to the surprising capabilities of animals and the profound bonds they can form with humans.

James "Jumper" Wide: The Determined Railwayman

James Edwin Wide, known affectionately as "Jumper," was a railway signalman famed for his daring habit of leaping between moving railway cars. This audacious practice, while earning him his nickname, ultimately led to a life-altering accident in 1877. One misjudged jump resulted in Wide falling beneath a moving train, severing both his legs at the knee. Despite this devastating injury, Wide's resilience and determination saw him crafting wooden peg legs, enabling him to continue working at the Uitenhage station. His ingenuity didn't stop there; he also constructed a wooden trolley to assist in his mobility. Yet, the challenges of his daily half-mile commute remained formidable.

The Encounter That Changed Everything

Sometime in the 1880s, Wide's life took an unexpected turn during a visit to a bustling South African market. There, he witnessed a sight that defied belief: a chacma baboon expertly driving an oxcart. Intrigued and impressed by the primate's capabilities, Wide purchased the baboon, naming him Jack. What began as a fascination quickly evolved into a profound partnership, with Jack becoming both pet and indispensable assistant to the disabled signalman.

Jack: More Than a Pet

Jack's integration into Wide's life was swift and comprehensive. Initially, Wide trained Jack to push his trolley to and from the railway station, alleviating the strain of his daily commute. Jack's role, however, soon expanded far beyond mere transportation. Within the household, Jack proved adept at various chores, from sweeping floors to taking out the trash. But it was in the signal box where Jack's talents truly shone.

As trains approached the Uitenhage station, they communicated with the signalman through a series of whistle toots, each pattern indicating specific track changes. By closely observing Wide, Jack quickly learned to recognize these signals and adeptly manipulated the levers to switch the tracks accordingly. Wide, able to relax and pursue his hobbies, including bird stuffing, marveled at his assistant's proficiency.

A Railway Legend

Jack's remarkable skills did not go unnoticed. Railway superintendent George B. Howe, who visited the Uitenhage station around 1890, documented his observations with awe. He noted Jack's intimate understanding of the signal whistles and lever operations, describing the touching bond between the baboon and his master: "It was very touching to see his fondness for his master. As I drew near, they were both sitting on the trolley. The baboon’s arms round his master’s neck, the other stroking Wide’s face."

Jack's capabilities were put to the test when a concerned passenger reported the unusual sight of a baboon manning the railway switches. Rather than dismissing Wide, the railway authorities decided to evaluate Jack's performance. They were astounded by the baboon's flawless execution of his duties. Subsequently, Jack was officially employed by the railway, receiving an employment number, a daily wage of 20 cents, and a weekly ration of half a bottle of beer.

Legacy of Perfection

For nine years, Jack diligently worked the rails, never making a single error—a remarkable feat that underscores the potential for precision and reliability in the animal kingdom. Sadly, Jack's life was cut short in 1890 when he succumbed to tuberculosis. His death marked the end of an era for the Uitenhage station, but his legacy endures as a symbol of perseverance, intelligence, and the extraordinary bond between humans and animals.

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