In 1957 a memorial was erected at Draaibosch - near Komgha - to acknowledge a deed of bravery performed by Major Hans Garrett Moore on 29 December 1877, which won for him the first Victoria Cross to be earned on South African soil.
Draaibosch Memorial (BHS)
Prompted by Stephanie Victor of the Amathole Museum, the BHS decided to facilitate the restoration of the commemorative plaque on the memorial. The BHS were assisted with a generous donation for the full cost of the plaque. The manufacture and installation on site will be done by Crankshaw Marble & Granite. The details inscribed on the plaque will once again inform local visitors and foreign tourists alike.
On behalf of the Border Historical Society (BHS) you are invited to the unveiling of the plaque at 11:00 on Heritage Day, Saturday 24 September 2022 at the Memorial - sited in the road reserve about 12 km west of Komgha on the road to Kei Road.
The cutting of the ribbon will be undertaken by Salisile Gardiner Kema, a retired school teacher living in Komgha, who in his time knew a great deal about the War of 1877-78.
The occasion will be an informal gathering to acknowledge the restoration of the plaque, the source of the funds and celebrate the successful restoration. There will not be any seating or refreshments and the ceremony will therefore be brief.
All are welcome to attend.
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