Thank you for all your observations. Yes, it is clear that for the preservation of Boer history and culture the SA authorities cannot be relied upon. This is shortsighted from their perspective and very sad for those who value that history but whatever is said or done it is very unlikely that this government will change attitude by itself. So we can sit down and be miserable because of it or do something about it ourselves. It would e.g. be great if it were possible to organize per region a group of people who can spend some free Saturdays cleaning, restoring and preserving historic sites. (I am sure this already happens on a smaller scale but organizing this on a national scale would make a difference) Especially by involving young people, this would go some way in instilling a sense of community and keeping memories alive. Perhaps it will also show the authorities that Boer history and culture will not just fade away by them ignoring it. If this can be done by simultaneously mobilizing the press (local and foreign) and getting sympathizing expats involved with donations and lobbying, I think it would not be impossible to shame the government into some positive action in this regard.
There are other things that can be done. People outside South Africa have little or no clue what the Boer War was about. The sieges, Generals and Kommandante, the extent of the guerilla war, the bloc house lines, concentration camps, expeditions into the Cape, the deportation of POW’s, etc remain a closed book to many. One idea to overcome that ignorance (and I am sure there are plenty more) could be a series of ABW based documentaries and /or a film or two. Imagine a movie based on “Commando” by Deneys Reid or one based on De Wet’s action near Sannah’s post.
I know it is easier said (especially by someone like me writing from Europe) than done, but let’s start somewhere. Is there any person or organization who can be the catalyst for getting this off the ground?
