Diary of a journey made by Governor Simon van der Stell, to the country of the Amaquas, in the year 1685

Abstract

This text is an excerpt from the "Diary of a Journey made by Governor Simon van der Stell to the country of the Amaquas, in the year 1685," translated from Dutch. The entry details the initial part of an expedition departing from the Castle of Good Hope on August 25th.

The Governor's party was substantial, consisting of fifty-six white men, plus Macassars and slaves, equipped with a calash, wagons, field pieces, and nearly 290 draught and pack oxen. The journey involved navigating varied terrain, from the rainy flatlands near the coast (passing Hooge Kraal and Stink River) to more mountainous regions, such as the Tiger Mountains (Tygervel-Igen).

The diary meticulously records daily travel routes, distances, latitudes, longitudes, and weather conditions. It documents encounters with the Hottentot tribes, including Captain Schaqer and Captain Kuyper, noting local customs like presenting a slaughtered ox as a gift. Notable geographical features mentioned include the Musselbank River, Paardeberg, and Dassenberg.

A significant portion details interactions with the Sonquas, described as robbers who subsist on honey and game, lacking cattle. Following an incident involving seized cattle, the Governor mediated a peace agreement between the Sonquas and the Amaquas. The expedition also encountered rhinoceroses and elephants, which were successfully scared away, though not without causing some distress and minor injury to the party. The journal ends as the party approaches the region of the Honingbergen (Honey Mountains) and continues moving northward and eastward.