Two wars and a historic mill
Everyone is welcome to join Mpumalanga Heritage on a tour of the old Mapoch battlefields in the lower Steenkampberg region between Roossenekal and Tonteldoos near Dullstroom on Saturday July 15.
MBOMBELA – Some historic sites in this region significant to the Second Anglo Boer War are not always that accessible to all, will also be visited. This includes the historic mill at Witpoort which is due for restoration soon.
This old mill was the only one in Mpumalanga to be included in the recent publication by Chester Staples on the historic mills in South Africa. It is also often referred to in books, like the memoirs of Rothman and Sckikkerling, regarding the war in these parts.
Another rare item on the itinerary will be a visit to the lone grave of the first Boer traitor to be executed by his people in these parts, Meyer de Kock, on the farm Windhoek between Tonteldoos and Dullstroom.
Those not staying over for the weekend in Dullstroom will meet at 06:00 at the Kruger Lowveld Tourism information office next to Mica at the Crossing Centre in Mbombela. They will then meet up with the others at 08:00 at the Engen Garage and Wimpy on the N4 at Belfast. A complete itinerary of the day will be included in Mpumalanga’s regular newsletter due to its members this week.
To receive such a document as well, please send your email address to mariusb@lowvelder.co.za.
Though partially a sand road, the route is accessible for all vehicle types. Pack a picnic lunch and wear walking shoes.
To offer room or if you need a seat, contact Jan Minnaar on 083-279-5579. The cost is R150 for annual membership per household for new members and those not paid up yet.
The outing will end in Dullstroon at about 16:00.
