Unfolding Fort Weeber battlefield site with Moeti Makgoga 

Mogorwane

Moeti Makgoga, a dedicated participant of the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP3), offers a unique perspective on the historic significance of Fort Weeber battlefield site.

For Makgoga, Fort Weeber is not just a relic of the past but a living testament to the struggles and triumphs of those who inhabited it.

Makgoga, whose name means “traveller” in Sepedi language, delves into the history of Fort Weeber, uncovering layers of complexity and resilience that define its legacy.

From its strategic location to its role in the conflicts between the Boers and the Bapedi, every stone of Fort Weeber tells a story of courage, sacrifice and survival.

Her exploration of Fort Weeber reveals the human drama that unfolded within its walls. She paints vivid pictures of the battles fought, the lives lost, and the triumphs achieved, allowing us to glimpse into the past and understand the challenges faced by those who called Fort Weeber home.

But Makgoga’s narrative goes beyond the surface level. She delves into the motivations and aspirations of the people who lived and fought at Fort Weeber, offering insights into their hopes for a better future and their determination to defend their way of life.

Through Makgoga’s eyes, Fort Weeber emerges not just as a historic site but as a symbol of resilience and perseverance. It serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit to overcome adversity and forge ahead in the face of challenges.

As we journey with Makgoga through the corridors of Fort Weeber, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our history and learning from the lessons of the past.

Her storytelling breathes life into the stones of Fort Weeber, allowing us to connect with the people who lived there and to honour their memory for generations to come.

Moeti Makgoga, a passionate participant of the PESP3 programme with a keen interest in historic memorials, led us to Fort Weeber, located next to road R579 in the settlement of Mogorwane.

According to Makgoga, Fort Weeber holds within its walls a wealth of historic memories from the first Sekhukhune land wars, including the notable attack on Queen Lekgolane, the sister of King Sekhukhune I, who reigned as Queen over the neighbouring Maserumule clan.

Fort Weeber, named after O.C. Weeber, the Landdrost at Middelburg, was strategically built to the west of the Leolo Mountains, not far from Maserumule, where Mohumagadi Lekgolane and her people faced persecution as a provocation directed towards King Sekhukhune.

The fort, garrisoned by Middelburg Burger Volunteers under the command of Captain Ignatius Philip Ferreira, played a crucial role in the conflicts of the time.

The fort, situated on an open plain, provided a vantage point for patrols and was considered to be in a healthier location than other forts of the region. Through successful patrols from Fort Weeber, the Boers gained control over the plains on the west side of the Leolo Mountains by the end of 1876.

However, the conflicts surrounding Fort Weeber were not without their challenges. In September 1876, Sekhukhune launched an attack on Fort Burgers with the aim of reclaiming cattle supposedly looted from the Bapedi by the volunteers.

While the attack did not result in the capture of the fort, Sekhukhune’s forces managed to recover the cattle and inflicted casualties on the volunteers.

Despite setbacks, the Boers continued their policy of harassing the Bapedi and preventing them from sowing their crops, eventually forcing Sekhukhune to seek peace.

Dr Alexander Merensky acted as a mediator, and peace negotiations took place at Botshabelo mission station, resulting in the restoration of peace along the border by February 1877.

The story of Fort Weeber is a testament to the complexities of history and the resilience of those who lived through tumultuous times.

As we reflect on the events that unfolded at this historic site, we are reminded of the importance of preserving our past and learning from the lessons it imparts.

Through Makgoga’s exploration of Fort Weeber, we gain a deeper understanding of the struggles and triumphs of those who came before us, inspiring us to honour their legacy and strive for peace and reconciliation in our own time.