Talana ghost walk and anniversary commemorations – this Friday
Even hardened sceptics have admitted to have experienced 'ghostly sensations' when walking the Talana trial on the anniversary of the battle, October 20
It’s that time of the year again when the ghosts come out to play at Talana Hill. Friday (tomorrow), October 20, marks the 124th anniversary (October 21-22)  of the Battle of Talana.
The ghosts of both Boer and British soldiers who fought up the slopes of Talana are side to haunt the battlefield every anniversary.
The annual ghost walk mixes history and the supernatural for an unforgettable experience.
Ghostbusters should meet at Talana Museum cemetery at around 5pm on Friday.
This is the first time in many years the anniversary on Friday is the same day – Friday- on which the battle took place on 20 October 1899.
Pam McFadden, a local historian, said:
“Don’t believe in ghosts? I didn’t until working at the museum and wandering the grounds in the evenings and then I realised that the creepy feeling of something over my shoulder was possibly a ghost. I have never seen them, but have felt the presence of them, particularly on the anniversary. And yes, they are there.
“On the anniversary many of the ghosts of the soldiers who died in the battle on Talana hill are around, as are the horses of the men of the Utrecht commando. I have in previous years smelt the horses, but never seen them.
“So are you brave enough to want to find out about our ghosts – then join us next Friday evening at 5pm in the museum cemetery.”
Costs per person for the talk and guided walk R100, includes sandwiches and sherry or fruit juice on the plateau of Talana hill as you wait to “see” the ghosts.
The anniversary commemoration continues on Saturday, , October 21, meet at Talana Museum at 06:45 / 07:00 for an anniversary tour of the Battle of Talana sites, including Mpati Hill and other sites in the town.
There will also be a chance to shop at the Creations Expo at Talana. There will also be a weapons demonstration by the famous Dundee Diehards at the Museum. So expect a full day of history followed by a braai at the Moth Shellhole and Museum on Beaconsfield Street.
Sunday, October 22, will see a tour of the Battle of Elandslaagte. For full details, contact Tourism Dundee on 072 183 5850.
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