BBC Wiltshire asked the public to submit a short story about something relevant to Wiltshire. I wrote this short piece about the 1820 Settlers. This is a group of over 2,000 people who left Britain in 1820 to settle in South Africa. And such an important part of South African history.
Wiltshire to Africa
The church service is ending – organ playing in the background as people are leaving.
James approaches the vicar.
James: Vicar, I saw the notice outside the church about the meeting here…for the Cape Colony Emigration Scheme next year,1820.
Vicar: Yes, James. The invitation is to all in the parish of Longbridge Deverill.
James: I hear it is a great opportunity. Look at me…an unemployed farm labourer with no future.
Vicar: Yes, it is, James. Times are hard for everyone. But the British government are looking for able-bodied men over the age of 18, with or without families, to farm in Africa. You should apply.
James: Vicar, do you know where will we be going if we are approved?
Vicar: The Cape Colony is on the southern tip of Africa – 4 months of sailing.
James: Oh…so, what happens when we get there?
Vicar: Each man will receive 100 acres of land.
James: A 100 acres, vicar! So, we are given land – just like that?
Vicar: Well, you have to remain on the land and farm for three years. Then the land is yours. You will have full support to set yourself up on your farm. That’s what your deposit is for.
James: How much is this deposit, vicar?
Vicar: £10
James: £10? Where am I going to find that kind of money?
Vicar: Well James. If your application is successful, this parish of St Peter and St Paul will pay it for you.
James: Oh vicar, I want to go….
Vicar: James my son, you may never see Wiltshire again, but you can start a new life in Africa. And who knows, your African descendants may return someday to this very church to celebrate your journey.
James: I can make something of myself, vicar.
Vicar: The road ahead will be a long and unknown one, and you need to be brave.
James: I hear the Weymouth is sailing from Southampton on 7th January 1820 for the Cape. I will be on it. I am ready to make history, vicar.
Paul Tanner-Tremaine
I had the pleasure of interviewing Paul Tanner-Tremaine, who is one of the most knowledgeable 1820 Settlers historians and genealogist.
