Latest news with #Anglo-BoerWar
The South African
23-06-2025
- Politics
- The South African
Possible name change on the cards for one of SA's oldest towns
The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has called on Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie to begin processes to change the name of Harrismith in the Free State due to its cultural sensitivities. According to BusinessTech , the ATM requested this of McKenzie in a recent parliamentary Q&A, revealing that towns named after historical figures who caused harm to the local indigenous population should be changed. MP for the Movement, Vuyolwethu Zungula, revealed that the name 'Harrismith' was an unpleasant reminder to the AmaXhosa Kingdom in particular, as it was their King, Hintsa kaKhawuta, who was captured and killed in 1835 by Governor Harry Smith, whom the town was named after. Harrismith itself has faced similar calls for name changes before, with proposals put forth as early as 2005, with Intabazwe being the preferred name choice. Another proposal was put forward in 2014/15, but did not find support from local communities, who petitioned to keep the name the same. Founded in 1849, Harrismith was named after British Governor Sir Harry Smith. The incredibly old South African town played a role during the Anglo-Boer War and still has some heritage buildings that reflect its colonial past. Minister McKenzie, in response to Zungula's proposal, said that it was not the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture's responsibility to initiate name changes in the country. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
The Citizen
23-06-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Alberton Voortrekkers' wreath laying to commemorate lives lost during Anglo-Boer war
As many in Alberton and across the country remembered and celebrated the brave stance taken by black school children during the Soweto uprisings, a group known as Die Voortrekkers commemorated lives lost during Anglo-Boer War. More than seven decades before the Soweto uprisings, Lord Roberts, who was the commander of the British forces during the Anglo-Boer War, issued one of the most consequential proclamations of the war. The year is 1900, and Roberts' proclamation on June 16 resulted in the launch of the 'scorched earth policy', which led to the destruction of Boer farms and caused women and children to end up in concentration camps. The Anglo-Boer War was a conflict fought between the British Empire and the two Boer republics (South African Republic and Orange Free State) over Britain's ambitions to takeover in Southern Africa. Alberton's Voortrekkers spent their holiday on Monday, June 16, at a wreath-laying and remembrance ceremony for the lives lost during the Anglo-Boer War. 'It is not just statistics. It is names, families. These are people who are still recalled in family histories to this day with tears in their eyes,' Die Voortrekkers said in a statement. 'On June 16, we commemorate not only the camps. We commemorate the people, the children who never made it to their first day of school,.the mothers who tried to protect their families with no support or means,' reads the statement. Die Voortrekkers' commemorative ceremony was held at the Turffontein Concentration Camp Memorial Grounds. This location was used by the British as a concentration camp housing an estimated 4 000 Boer women and children. 'This is a day of mourning, but also a day of realisation. To realise that freedom doesn't come for free. Join The Pioneers if you want to learn more, remember together, and help build a future where our children will carry their legacy on with dignity,' said the Die Voortrekkers. To follow the work of Die Voortrekkers in Alberton, visit their Facebook page at 'Die Voortrekkers – Org Meyer – Alberton,' their website, or email for more information. At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
Daily Maverick
19-06-2025
- Daily Maverick
Karoo farmstays in the Eastern Cape: Off-the-grid adventures, history, and heart
The Eastern Cape Karoo, arguably the unsung hero of all South African travel destinations, is famous for its country hospitality, its adventure options, and its historic old farmsteads full of stories and friendly faces. Planning to visit the Eastern Cape Karoo? From your next honeymoon destination to farm wedding venues, Julienne Du Toit shares her curated list of must-visit places in her homeland. *** Ditch those digital screens, load the mountain bikes and pack some sturdy walking boots that don't mind a bit of 'farmyard' on their soles. You're coming to the Eastern Cape Karoo, arguably the unsung hero of all South African travel destinations. Chances are you're going to hike in the impressive Sneeuberg range of mountains, feel the energy of the shearing shed in action, go on paleo-tours that will take you back 250-million years, fish for trout and bass in distant dams, see San Bushman cave paintings in hidden heights, sniff the bossies that make a Karoo lamb chop so tasty, find yourselves a perfect honeymoon spot and hell, even book a Karoo farm wedding venue for a fraction of city prices. On one farm, you might catch a cricket match in full swing, on another, you could pick up some precious country kitchen secrets. On one farm, you could hear how the English soldiers spent their days inside an Anglo-Boer War blockhouse, on another, you'd learn how to fire up that 'donkey' for a piping hot off-grid shower tonight. There will be sundowners in magic landscapes, long stoepsitting sessions, or rainy afternoons behind a good book in a cosy place. And if you're lucky, you could find yourselves in the heat of a ram auction (don't lift a finger!) or sampling the delights of an annual wool festival. You will meet the friendliest platteland mense in South Africa, who will tell you the most entertaining stories of how their ancestors came to settle these valleys. And they will often speak to you in a very special language called Graaffrikaans, in sentences that begin in English, swerve into Afrikaans and perhaps end with Xhosa words. In these parts, communication is all that matters. The Karoo Farmstay is the youngest South African domestic tourism offering. It could well become your favourite holiday option of all. Glen Avon Guest Farm, KwaNojoli (formerly Somerset East) Glen Avon, a historical Eastern Cape farm tucked into the Boschberg mountain range that looms over KwaNojoli, could be a Victorian-era snapshot of rural England. The ancient olive and sneezewood fence posts that line the paddocks of this well-watered Angora goat and Döhne Merino sheep farm are gnarled and twisted by centuries of Karoo weather. The oak-lined avenues leading to the Brown family farmhouses and guest cottages, pecan-fringed paddocks, a spectacular waterfall on the upper reaches of the farm, a number of trout- and bass-filled dams, a shearing shed that once did duty as a British officers' mess, and the recently restored three-storey-high old mill built in 1862, are all features of Glen Avon. The birding is quite incredible. Farmer Greg Brown (seventh generation on this land) has recorded 275 bird species. Glen Avon was granted to soldier and farmer Robert Hart in 1825, in recognition of his help to the 1820 British Settlers. Since then, his descendants (the Harts and later the Browns) have been able custodians of this remarkable property. Facilities: There are four cottages on Glen Avon. Hart Cottage, thought to have been built in 1817, is thatched, sleeps five, has a fully equipped kitchen, bathroom and outside braai. Pecan Cottage, with three rooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen, lounge and lovely stoep, sleeps six. There are two smaller cottages — Garden View and Garden Close — that both sleep two and offer light self-catering. There are three marked hiking trails, several dams where you can fish for trout or bass, rambles on farm lanes, and an optional tour of the venerable mill. You're also welcome to join Greg on his farm rounds, or to catch a lift up the mountain for breathtaking vistas. There is a minimum charge of R500 for a working mill tour; thereafter, R100 per person, with discounts for large groups. For trout fishers, there's a rod fee of R250 a day. Bass fishing is on the house. A minimum stay of two nights is definitely recommended. Where: Between Cookhouse and 12km from KwaNojoli, on the R63, is a clearly marked road to Glen Avon. It is a 6.8km-long gravel road in fair condition. Blanco Guest Farm, Tarkastad Set in the foothills and the clean air of the Winterberg mountains, Blanco is one of those wholesome family resorts that has been going for generations, and seems to run on fun, nostalgia and children's laughter. Twice a day, there are complimentary horse rides on steady, patient steeds that are happy to amble along with thrilled tots on board, always led by staff. Every day, children can enjoy a tractor-trailer ride puttering along country lanes. There are cows, horses, pigs and sheep scattered about this working farm. Surrounding the comfortably appointed rondavels and assorted cottages, are tennis courts, a 9-hole golf course, squash court, bowling greens, putt-putt, a swimming pool and hiking paths. Paths and 4×4 trails wind through the adjoining game-rich veld. In short, it is a place perfect for young families, with a separate kiddies' dining room, childminders, and old-fashioned comfort food. The accommodation strikes just the right note — it's like staying on a family farm with eccentric, higgledy-piggledy buildings that are unusual yet comfy. Many of the parents you'll meet in the library, lounge or on the stoep came here as children themselves. Facilities: There are 25 cottages of varying sizes, almost all with a queen-sized bed, a varying number of children's beds, a private bathroom, plus heaters and fans. Rates include full access to all facilities. The Manor House has four spacious suites with a communal lounge and kitchen area. Where: About 14km east of Tarkastad, along a fairly good dirt road leading off the R344 to the Winterberg. What else? One of the agreeable quirks is that you bring your own drinks. A space in the bar's fridges is designated for you or your group. Contact: 045 846 9163 or WhatsApp Micala on 072 205 2725; [email protected]; Hillston Guest Farm, Schoombee (Middelburg, Eastern Cape) Here, in the centre of the Karoo Midlands, is a working sheep and Angora goat farm remarkable for its Anglo-Boer War history, wide open skies and iconic views. The shearing shed, an elegant wood and iron building, was once the barracks from Grootfontein, brought here in bits and pieces, the wooden chutes and pens glowing with age and layers of lanolin. Hillston offers two distinctly different guest farmhouses. One is the remote and glorious Northmead Country House, off the grid and set on the grassy plains. If you've watched Stuur Groete aan Mannetjies Roux, with Laurika Rauch, Ian Roberts and Anna-Mart van der Merwe, you'll immediately recognise it. Director Christopher Torr needed a farmhouse where the view from the kitchen swept across the plains, and Northmead was perfect. Walking in the veld, you sense the freshness of the Karoo, its open, disarming nature, its little mysteries left for you to find. Then there is the metallic song of spinning windpumps, the call of a turtle dove, and the plaintive rising whistle of a clapper lark. Just a few steps away from the house is a large dam, brimming with clear water and perfect for cooling down in. The second accommodation is a solidly built old ironstone cottage in the lap of a smoothly rising koppie. Beside it is an Anglo-Boer War-era blockhouse, adapted to be a braai lapa. Take a walk to see views over three distinctive hills: Teebus, Koffiebus and Tafelberg. Sit on the stoep and read, listen to the lambs bawling to their mothers and watch the clouds sweep over you. Hillston records more than 100 bird species that include Verreaux's eagles, flamingos and blue cranes that visit the farm dams in the summer season. Facilities: Northmead sleeps eight, has beautiful wooden floors and beamed ceilings, a lovely farmhouse-style kitchen with a coal or wood-burning stove, a gas stove and fridge. The smaller ironstone cottage can sleep six, is fully equipped for self-catering, and offers a great stoep for dreamy sundowners. Where: Hillston Farm is 47km from Middelburg on the R56 road towards Steynsburg, on a 5km dirt road in the direction of Oorlogspoort and Macasserfontein. Contacts: 082 322 4403 (Riana Southey); [email protected]; DM
IOL News
11-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Curtains up: Kultura Festival in Durbanville is a celebration of Afrikaans and the arts
Sandra Prinsloo, will open the festival on June 20 with her acclaimed one-woman show, 'Kamphoer – die verhaal van Susan Nell". The Kultura Festival in Durbanville marks a new chapter for Cape Town's northern suburbs as the region's first dedicated cultural event. With seven top-tier performers and a series of events, the festival promises to bring the local community together in honour of the area's rich history, diverse heritage, and dynamic spirit. Running from Friday, 20 June to Friday, 27 June, Curro Durbanville High School will come alive with music, storytelling, comedy, and culinary delights that celebrate the unique character of Cape Town's Northern suburbs. The line-up has been carefully selected to offer something for every taste South Africa's doyenne of theatre, Sandra Prinsloo, will open the festival on 20 June with her acclaimed one-woman show, 'Kamphoer – die verhaal van Susan Nell'. This poignant performance explores the harrowing true story of Susan Nell, a survivor of the Anglo-Boer War. The play masterfully portrays trauma, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. The entertainment continues on Saturday, 21 June with a triple bill of laughter. Kicking off the day is the much-loved Marion Holm in her new one-woman show 'Marion Monroe', blending sharp humour with heartfelt storytelling and a fresh cast of characters. This comedic gem unpacks themes of identity and self-perception. Next up is Marc Lottering in 'Marc Eugene Lottering', as the comedian gives audiences a personal look into his life and heritage. He shares never-before-heard stories, including his childhood belief that his family were "blonde German-Caribbeans" - a hilariously misguided notion inspired by his mother.
IOL News
05-06-2025
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Sleeping with the enemy; 40 years in jail for mother who killed her kids; Elvis and Hound Dog scandalise public
On This Day In History 1873 The name of the diamond diggings, De Beer's New Rush is changed to Kimberley. 1873 Sultan Barghash bin Said of Zanzibar closes the island's great slave market. 1883 The first regularly scheduled run of the fabled Orient Express train leaves Paris. 1916 Britain's Anglo-Boer War hero, Lord Kitchener drowns when the SS Hampshire sinks after hitting a German mine near the Orkney Islands. 1918 The Broederbond is founded in Jozi to advance the cultural traditions of Afrikaans. 1937 Henry Ford orders a 32-hour work week. 1941 World War II: At least 4 000 people who are hiding in a tunnel die after a Japanese air attack on the Chinese city of Chongqing. 1947 US Secretary of State George Marshall calls for economic aid to war-torn Europe. It becomes known as the Marshall Plan. 1956 Elvis Presley introduces his new single, Hound Dog, on TV, scandalising the audience with his suggestive hip movements. 1963 British Secretary of State for War, John Profumo resigns amid a scandal because of his relationship with a prostitute, who is also sleeping with a member of the Russian embassy.1967 Israel launches the Six-Day War. 1975 The Suez Canal opens for the first time since the Six-Day War, 8 years before. 1981 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports the first cases of Aids. 1998 Thulane 'Sugarboy' Malinga wins the WBF super-middleweight boxing title for SA. 2006 Islamic militants seize Somalia's capital, unifying the city for the first time in 16 years. 2019 The average person ingests 50 000 pieces of microplastic a year and inhales a similar amount, according to a study – the first of its kind – published in the journal, Environmental Science and Technology. 2023 Australian Kathleen Folbigg is pardoned after 20 years in prison for the murder of her four children, after new genetic research found evidence of gene disorders in the children. 2024 The world's only surviving wild horse, the Przewalski's Horse, is returned to the Golden Steppe of Kazakhstan for the first time in over 200 years. DAILY NEWS
