An investigation of a historical midden found at Bryntirion Estate, Pretoria

Abstract

During construction work to erect a fence at the Presidential Estate in Bryntirion, Pretoria, an old midden was unearthed by the contractor Boleng cs, who needs to be commended for reporting the fi nd, which lead to the collection of valuable historical information. It was investigated by means of historical and archaeological research in 2007. The cultural artefacts found in the midden mostly date back to the late 19th and early 20th century. More recent artefacts were also found, but these seem to be from the recent use of the midden. It seems as if the midden was established during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902) and that it is probably linked to a refugee camp which was established on the site by the British in 1902. The families of Boers who supported the British were housed in this camp. The information obtained assists in the reconstruction of one of the most important periods in the history of South Africa. The analysis of cultural  material contributes to the understanding of the circumstances and way of life in this and similar camps during the war, especially since research on other, similar sites have as yet not been published.

Key words: Anglo-Boer War; Bryntirion; refugee camp; refuse midden; way of life