Ron Hopkins’ book about the historical sites of Kruger is a must have addition to any bookshelf. Kruger lovers and history lovers alike will love to digest all of the back stories behind the 60 historical sites of Kruger National Park.
Ron and his wife Cindy naively took on the challenge of visiting all 60 sites during a three-day trip to KNP. They soon realised that they were going to need more time to see every single one, but the three-day recce inspired Hopkins to start researching all of the sites.
He also believed that the small copper plaques that demarcate each site could not tell the full story.
His inspiration to write the book was sparked on that short trip and upon returning home, he began his research – the people, the event, the back story.
Ron and Cindy then took a week’s leave and tried once again to visit them all and battled to find each spot. So they realised another trip would be in order and this time they were armed with a GPS, ready to complete the mission.
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The duo were also saddened to see the condition of the copper plaques – many deteriorating due to climate and also many having fallen victim to vandalism and theft. At the time, the Honorary Rangers had embarked on a large scale cleaning exercise which soon turned into a full replacement project after being reviewed by KNP’s heritage offices.
Ron’s passion for the book project turned into an obsession and he says he is thankful that his wife brought into his mad plans!
The historical sites book is a wonderful addition to any Kruger visit but is also enjoyable whilst sitting at home, digesting tales of old.
In addition, Ron has produced the Illustrated History of the Southern Lowveld which includes stories about Louise Trichardt, the Selati railway line, the mining towns of Barberton and Pilgrim’s Rest, to name but a few.
The Kruger sites book, along with its Afrikaans alternative, are available at shops within Kruger National Park and Pick n Pay Hoedspruit stocks both the Kruger sites book and the Illustrated History of the Southern Lowveld.
Direct orders can be made by emailing: ingwebook@gmail.com
