Historic boat confirmed as lime barge
It has been thrilling for many locals, having such an important piece of the town's history being discovered.
The last two weeks have seen locals and historians alike working together to uncover the history of the mysterious boat that was found on the Mzimkhulu River.
Father and son, Gavin and Gareth Bate made the discovery on August 17 whilst dredging sand at the river.
It was then arranged for the boat to be carefully excavated and it has since been moved to Spillers Wharf, where the public can view it.
The historic boat’s excavation and movement was thanks to a joint effort by Gavin, Gareth, Natal Recovery and Kevin Stott.
The discovery has created a buzz on the South Coast, with individuals sharing their own recollections of river boats in the past.
Wally Archer suspected that it was a barge used for the transportation of lime from the lime works to the south wharf.
Mary Neethling, a local historian who established the Port Shepstone Museum and has researched this area since the 1970s has confirmed Wally’s theory.
Mary said that the boat is indeed a barge that was used to cart cargo up and down the rivers between the south wharf, the sugar mill and the lime quarries.
She added that it it is an important part of the town’s history and therefore must be preserved.
It has been thrilling for many locals, having such an important piece of the town’s history being discovered.
Mary has vast knowledge of the barge’s history and could be able to connect the boat to all aspects of the history of Port Shepstone.
Anyone who might be interested in this information can contact Mary via sms only on 083 3014208.
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