The People Of Welgeval

by Botlhale Tema

When working on the UNESCO Slave route project, Botlhale Tema discovered the extraordinary fact that her well-established family and community at Welgeval had been founded by two boys who had been slaves in the mid-nineteenth century.

Genres: Biography, Africa, Nonfiction, History

266 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Puleng Hopper · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book 'Land of our my ancestors' was initially published in 2005 with the title 'The people of Welgeval'. The original title did not do much justice to the book, as many people were unaware as to where Welgeval had been situated. As a result in 2019, the book was republished with an epiloque and prologue that gives historical context , and feedback on the journey and outcome of the land claim that ensued.

Former teacher, director of human resources, and SG of SA national commission for UNESCO ( United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization), Dr Botlhale Tema, was surprised to discover, while busy with the slave route project at work, that she was a descendant of slaves. After extensive research, she was able to put the pieces of the puzzle together to give answer to her real origins and her people's idiosyncrasies.

The story begins in the late 19th century with two friends turned family, Maja and Polomane, also known as April and September. They are kidnapped and kept as slaves under the pretext of being orphans and apprentists. Slavery had officially been abolished in 1834 and 1852, but was still taking place clandestinely. As young adults the duo were set free by their masters. They reconnected and set up home with a missionary. Polomane then marries Maja's sister Christina.

'Land of my ancestors' then continues to cover three generations of the descendants of Maja and Polomane ; through colonialism, the Anglo boer war, apartheid, the land act of 1913, the origin of Sun City, the establishment and fall of Bophuthatswana, up to post democratic South Africa.

A story of love, resilience, hope, marriage, politics, friendship, family, education, religion, race, patriarchy, community and country.

An interesting, informative and captivating read. Purposefully structured in 4 sections which each begin with a stanza from poems that evoke Sipho Sepamla, Mongane Serote, Njabulo D Ndebele and Eskia Mphahlele. A pacey and engaging 45 chapters that average not more than six pages each. The dialogues in Afrikaans and Setswana make for a fresh and authentic read.

Dr Tema does not tell, but shows in her writing how the people lived. She brings them to life In one scene she demonstrates racism A young man Stepahus, had to travel in an open train carriage while it rained. When he tried to dry himself by getting onto the platform, he was chased back into the carriage. He was not allowed on the platform because he was a native. One other scene that remained with me was that which demonstrated the brutality of patriarchy. A widow Mankentshitswe, after her husband David died, her in laws repossessed all their assets . As a woman, she could not inherit the late husband's property and possessions. The chief also ruled against her. She was only left with the kids and she was forced to return to her parents home. In the 2 scenes, i was able to live the hurt and frustrations of the 2 characters as they experienced marginalisation of great proportions.

An important book that would serve a greater purpose as a set material in our schools. Dr Tema writes with passion, from the heart. I would too if the characters in my book were my real father and grand father. Historical fiction written by females that are Black has a special, humane and warm aspect. The likes of Merriam Tladi, NomaVenda Mathiane, Sindiwe Magona, and Gcina Mhlongo came to mind, to mention a few.

[Joss Du Trevou]

A fascinating account of four family generations who lived and grew up in a village in the Pilanesberg which ultimately was taken away from them.

[Marion Roux · Rating 3 out of 5]

A novel based on the true facts of the author's life - the trials and tribulations of settling in the northern part of South Africa (in the Pilanesberg near Rustenberg). Their lives are traced from the late 1800's through to the first half of the 20th century. They revealed a thirst for knowledge and encouraged education. I am not sure if it was intentional, but I felt the writing showed a 'maturing' as the characters became more literate.

[Sean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book. Well written as a historical novel.

[windy · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story of a community in the Pilanesberg mountains, based on the author's real family history. A bit clunky in places, but the historical background is fascinating.

[Stephanie Muller · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting history of South Africa towards end of 1800's. It answered many questions in my mind.