Booklet provides insight on first Natal settlers

2019 is the 170th anniversary of the arrival of the first British immigrants to Natal thanks to the private initiative of Joseph Byrne. In the spirit of the preamble of the South African constitution which advises recognition of “those who have worked to build and develop our country,” Bluff historian Duncan Du Bois has published a booklet on the Byrne settlers titled Press reflections on immigration to Natal 1847-1853.

Lavishly illustrated with advertisements and news clips from colonial newspapers of the period, the booklet focuses on letters to the editors, advertisements, articles and editorials in producing a fresh, authentic view of the subject of immigration and settlement.

“The experiences, disappointments and challenges the settlers faced enable us to appreciate the term ‘disadvantaged’ in a new context,” said Du Bois. When Byrne promoted his scheme in 1849, no mention was made of the total lack of infrastructure and development in Natal. The glowing descriptions in emigration brochures and newspapers of this idyllic colony were mere figments of a fertile imagination. Natal was completely devoid of infrastructure: no roads, bridges, rails, fences and hedges. Durban had only a single brick building in 1850. Wild, untamed bush and veld prevailed.

According Duncan, unhealthy, overcrowded conditions and unemployment in England during the 1840s encouraged emigration. Although North America was the destination of choice, thanks to Joseph Byrne’s efforts he was able to attract some 3,500 immigrants to Natal during the period 1849-1851.

“Without the Byrne immigration scheme, our history would have been very different as the British government at that time had no official interest in promoting immigration to Natal. Development of our province might not have commenced until much later in the nineteenth century. Without the enterprise of the Byrne settlers, the sugar industry might have been delayed for decades along with the importing of indentured Indian labour.”

Press reflections on immigration to Natal 1847-1853 is available from Elena at Inkdotcom at Wakefields Centre at R60 per copy.

DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics.
To receive news links via WhatsApp or Telegram, send an invite to 061 876 3179
The Southlands Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?

Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.

To receive our free newsletter click here

(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)