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In the 19th century, transport riders emerged as critical connectors of remote communities in the Eastern Cape. William Shuman, a farmer from Brosdale farm in the Elliot district, exemplified the spirit of these traders who transformed regional transportation. The discovery of diamonds in 1867 and gold in 1881 sparked a significant economic transformation, drawing prospectors and traders to new frontiers. Shuman established a "Wagon Run" between Elliot and Queenstown, becoming part of a broader network that transported essential goods across challenging terrain.
Portrait of a young William Shuman
The transport riders carried a vital range of products necessary for developing communities. Their wagons transported machinery, furniture, clothing, textiles, fresh and dried produce, canned goods, tobacco, liquor, and other critical supplies.
The transport wagon itself was a marvel of practical engineering, typically constructed with a chassis, floorboards, and body designed to withstand harsh conditions. Technological improvements gradually enhanced these wagons, with iron axles replacing wooden ones and advanced brake systems improving mobility and safety.
The Shuman ox-wagon was made by Ballentyne Brother's, wagon makers in Queenstown during the early 19th century. Traditional South African ox-wagons were four-wheeled vehicles used for hauling goods across the country. They had wooden frames, iron axels, and canvas covers. William Shuman carted bales of wool in the wagon pictured below during his transport riding days. The wool was hauled to regional stations, where it was loaded onto trains bound for major centres like Port Elizabeth. The wool was then sold through brokers in Port Elizabeth, a key hub for the wool trade.
The Shuman ox wagon
The Shuman ox yolk was crafted by skilled craftsmen in the surrounding towns during the 19th century
Oxen were the backbone of transport riding, with Afrikaner breeds proving particularly robust. Trained from a young age, these animals were carefully selected and paired, with experienced oxen leading teams through difficult landscapes. Each ox received a unique name, reflecting the personal relationship between the transport rider and their animals. The journey was fraught with challenges, including unpredictable weather, treacherous terrain, wildlife threats, and persistent animal diseases that could decimate entire teams.
One story passed down through generations of the Shuman family describes how a leopard attacked the herd at the Dordrecht halfway stop. After hearing frantic bellowing from the oxen enclosure, William found an ox pinned by the leopard. He raised his rifle and fired a shot into the air. When the predator did not retreat, he fired again, striking the animal. The leopard released its hold, leaped over the fence, and disappeared into the night.
Descendents of the herd establshed by William Shuman
A painting by Charles Michell in 1840 showing a wagon ascending Cradock kloof. The painting provides an example of the extreme terrain transport riders traversed.
The lifestyle of transport riders was marked by extraordinary endurance and dedication. Months would pass as they covered vast distances, often sleeping near their wagons and relying on outspan points near water sources to rest and replenish their strength. Women played a crucial supporting role, managing farms and families during the extended absences of their husbands. This intricate support system allowed the "Wagon Run" to continue despite numerous obstacles.
Span of Afrikaner oxen and transport wagon belonging to William Shuman in front of the Queenstown Station 1898
The era of transport riding began to decline with technological advances. The introduction of railways in 1893 and motor vehicles in the early 20th century gradually made traditional wagon transportation obsolete. The South African (Anglo Boer) War between 1899 and 1902 further accelerated this transition, marking the end of an important chapter in regional transportation and economic development. The impact of the war on William's transport business and farm was substantial. Both were devastated by British scorched-earth tactics as soldiers burned crops and buildings. He adjusted his lines and travel plans to evade British patrols and protect his assets. It was a struggle to maintain operations and ensure his family's survival.
An older William Shuman
William's life was marked by simplicity and practicality. He worked tirelessly, driving long distances as a transport rider and navigated various difficulties on the road. Breakdowns, bad roads, and unpredictable weather became familiar obstacles. He learned to adapt and to think on his feet. He left his descendents the following advice: "Life's not about avoiding obstacles; its about growing with them. Build strong relationships, learn from failures, and cherish memories. That's where true strength lies."
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