Pilgrim’s Rest Who’s Who 1873 to 1881 by René Reinders is a comprehensive biographical dictionary covering the diggers’ era of the town’s history, before all alluvial and mining operations were consolidated under Transvaal Gold Mining Estates (TGME). “This period is filled with some of the most outlandish and compelling characters to have ever graced the stage of South Africa’s narrative. Unfortunately, for the most part, only the most eccentric, ruthless, opportunistic and entrepreneurial of these individuals have made their way into the history books. It is for this reason that this publication provides the biographical information of the more than 1 400 diggers who lived and worked in that golden valley during the rush era. "It is not only significant but also highly praiseworthy,” said mining journalist and historian, Jade Davenport in a recent review of the book in Mining Weekly.

The book is the culmination of more than 20 years of painstaking research by Pilgrim’s Rest-based historian, Reinders. With some 35 years’ experience, having lived in the historic gold mining village and worked for Pilgrim’s Rest Museum Services since 1982, there are few individuals as qualified to do so.

The author of the recently published Lost Tracks and Trails of the Lowveld and Escarpment, Dr Gerrit Haarhoff will introduce the author, after which the floor will be opened for questions.

• Date: 24 january 2019 18h00
• Venue: A Bica Coffee Shop, Belladonna Centre, West Acres in Nelspruit
• Cost: R50 which includes a lovely plate of lasagne. A cash bar is available.
• Books will be available on sale at R250 per copy. Bookings and enquiries: 062-422-6842.

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Book Cover