Four countries (Zambia,
Botswana, Namibia and Zimbabwe) meet in the middle of southern Africa … I had not
realised this bridge was being built – but was amazed to see it up and running this year …
 |
| Victoria Falls and the bridge across the Zambezi |
I’ve been fortunate enough to live in South Africa, and been able to visit Zimbabwe – back in the late 1970s when it was still Rhodesia.
Then to visit Namibia
and Botswana at separate times, and once drive up from Johannesburg through
Botswana via the Okavango Swamps, to this junction … where we either ferried over the Zambezi, or took
a short flight … depending on the next destination … usually Victoria Falls in
Zimbabwe (ex Rhodesia).
 |
| Victoria Falls Bridge, crossing the Zambezi |
As a quiet aside my
grandfather designed Victoria Falls Bridge, opened in 1908 … and at the hotel
there is a plaque acknowledging this – hence one reason why I went to the Falls
in the late 1970s.
 |
| Zambezi River at four countries' crossing |
To get from Cape Town to the rest of Africa … the Zambezi River needs to be crossed …
I am seriously thinking
about writing some of my thoughts on my time in the 1980s in southern Africa –
as a change to posts on Museums, Art Galleries and all the other subjects I
gently touch upon (like this one!).
 |
| The route of the revised bridge |
The Kazungula Bridge has
definitely spurred the direction of my thoughts … I’ll leave you with the
images I’ve found, and some links …
It was going to link the
four countries … but Zimbabwe had a change of heart (actually a boundary
dispute) and so the bridge originally 600 metres long, had then had to undergo
design alterations stretching it to 923 metres, avoiding Zimbabwe … they’ll
regret that in the coming years – losing those connections and revenue from the
trade that would have accrued. Zimbabwe
is desperately in need of a better economy.
I’ve been watching or
half-watching way too much tennis … French Open, Eastbourne and now Wimbledon …
and so haven’t been half as dedicated as I might have been. (There is a football match on in an hour or
so … !!)
 |
| c/o The UN Organisation Development Project |
I’m not really back either … as the Olympics is a-coming … and I’m not sure if I’ve mentioned I worked for the British Olympic Association back in 1972 – a privilege and was taken to Munich. I have some information from that time – and if I can find it … I think I’ll write about that – then I can donate things to charity.
Well this was meant to be short … but so be it – I’ll be around and doing what I can … Look after yourselves as these months slip by – and I will see you at your blogs …
Diane on her Photo Diary published a post on 1st May 2017 ... after she'd visited this junction ... see the link
I found out about the Kazungula Bridge via this article ... which I completely and unintentionally ignored - here it is: Big Think - World's Weirdest Bridge
Hilary Melton-Butcher
Positive Letters Inspirational Stories
43 comments:
How wonderful to have a plaque commemorating your grandfather!
Sounds like you've got months' worth of topics coming up :)
How amazing that your grandfather's work has been recognised.
Sigh on the Zimbabwe exclusion.
Have fun watching the Olympics and I look forward (as I always do) at seeing your posts in the fullness of time.
I really enjoyed reading this post. I learned something today. So glad your grandfather was recognized. I just finished watching the soccer match. What a finish. I’m looking forward to watching the Olympics. Happy Sunday.
www.rsrue.blogspot.com
Hari OM
George Hobson! Wasn't there a connection to Sydney Harbour Bridge too? or was that another on the project.... I'd need to go brush up on my history. Oh, yes, Hilary - do please tell us your memories!!! My African experiences are mainly 1970s (Nigeria) and some 80s (Kenya/SA). I hear ya about the sport. Manic. YAM xx
Haven't been following the tennis, but just saw England losing to Italy. Unfortunately, as soon as it went to penalties I figured it was a foregone conclusion :(
And working with the Olympics must have been a phenomenal experience, although the Munich games were marred by violence that year.
You must be very proud that your grandfather designed Victoria Falls Bridge which opened in 1908 - he must have been an important and influential engineer. I would get a perfect photo of the hotel plaque with your and your relatives around the public acknowledgement of grandpa's contribution.
Re tennis, I sat up overnight watching Ash Barty's well deserved Australian victory :)
What an impressive grandfather you had, designing such a bridge! You've visited so many places. I enjoy it when you take us along on your trips. I'd also love to read about your work with the Olympics and going to Munich.
Love,
Janie
@ Anabel – it is … though I’m not sure it’s there now – but that’s the way life is …
@ Liz – I’ve always masses to write about – just getting it all down …
@ EC – yes … he has been highly recognised for his bridge designing skills. I know Zimbabwe is such a sad country now – it was a stunning place to visit. Thank you re the Olympics …
@ R’s Rue – so pleased you enjoyed the post … sadly I never knew my grandfather, but he briefly met me! I didn’t watch the football – but kept an eye on it … in fear of what would and did happen. The Olympics will bring some outstanding results …
@ Yam – George Hobson – yes my grandfather became his assistant, and they were part of Fox and Partners; and my grandfather was intrinsic in designing Sydney Harbour Bridge …
There’s a lot of snippets to be told … my uncle was one of the reasons I went out to SA … and when he visited we always went around engineering projects!
@ Ian – oh I couldn’t watch the football – I’d hoped it’d end differently. Yes the Munich Olympics was interesting … I was very naïve, but considered myself lucky to have the job – which totally absorbed me – yes I ended up in Munich the day after the atrocities … so again I was lucky the Games continued.
@ Hels - my grandfather was a humble man – but obviously extremely capable and knowledgeable. I did get some photos – but I think they’ve vanished over the years … my grandfather is however acknowledged …
Ash Barty’s win was brilliant … so pleased for her, and for achieving it 50 years after Evonne Goolagong won her first Wimbledon, whom Barty recognised and co-operated with her re the tennis clothing she wore at this year’s final.
What I had not known was … that Evonne had had the same challenging time with her coach … as Britney Spears has with her father … thankfully Evonne was able to get release only on marriage to Roger Cawley – a British tennis player, who then became her coach, hitting partner and manager from that time on.
@ Janie – thank you … sadly I never knew my grandfather, but his elder son, my uncle I spent quite a bit of time with … especially as I lived in SA for a while. I can’t remember much about the Olympics – but I’ll have to look out the few bits I’ve got … and bring back a few memories.
Thanks everyone for taking an interest … it’ll make me look at those days more intently … all the best and have good weeks – cheers Hilary
You took me back five years to when I visited Victoria Falls, and had tea at the hotel! How wonderful that your grandfather designed that magnificent bridge. A short but perfectly formed post Hilary.
Good morning Hilary: No doubt the Africa you lived in has changed dramatically from those times until now. Based on my own experience in travelling through South Africa and the Horn of Africa in recent years, Chinese influence is everywhere, and roads are being built at an astonishing rate. It was quite wonderful, I am sure to be able to view the plaque dedicated to your grandfather. I hope it is still in place. For a dedicated sports fan (dare I say fanatic?) there is much to keep you occupied of late. It's not a passion of mine to watch it, but I understand that Canadian tennis players have done well in recent tournaments, so I hope you are cheering them on. After all, given your stay in Victoria, a Maple Leaf has a permanent place on your sleeve. Hugs from Ontario. David
This is a fascinating post, Hilary. I loved learning about your grandfather. I Think yo know how much I like bridges and big mechanical things and construction projects. What a treat to be associated with an important bridge, even if it's a couple generations and a hundred years ago. I would enjoy reading about any of the topics you've mentioned here. In the meantime, enjoy the sports!
Amazing your grandfather designed the one bridge.
Zimbabwe will regret their decision.
Wow, that is very interesting that your grandfather designed the Vic Falls bridge, I am sure I must have seen the plaque as I have visited the falls many times, sadly I would not have registered at the time.
We saw the Kazungula Bridge while it was being built, we had to cross by ferry then and it was quite something. Heavy trucks on the ferry and the water almost lapping around one's feet as we were walk-on passengers. May 1, 2017, I have just checked the date of my photo on my photodiary, also photos of the falls and the bridge. I note there is no comment from you so I guess you missed the entry.
Take care, Diane
Every single thing you mentioned, I'd love to read about! It sounds like you have a rich life and that is wonderful. I think you're right about the bridge...it brings great potential for bettering the economy and backing out probably won't end up pretty (for the economy in Zimbabwe). They're put themselves in the position to miss a lot.
It's interesting that you were working for the British Olympic Association. I bet that was an exciting time.
Kudos to your grandfather for leaving behind such a legacy with the bridge design! It's one of the bridges you stop and get a picture of if you can because it is so striking.
That bridge is interesting. Connecting four countries--I can see the challenge. I'm impressed they got it done.
@ Keith – how interesting you went there 5 years ago … it’s an amazing part of the world. Your trip must have been wonderful. I see Diane saw the Kazungula Bridge being built … and has posted some photos of it – which I’ll link across – once I’ve got to check them out – done!
@ David – yes it has changed, but even more so since my grandfather and uncle were there. I bet you saw lots of Chinese influence in your travels … China was definitely in Angola (Benguela Railway) – with the railway to the Congo border; there’s a longer one built in the 1970s – Tanzania-Zambia Railway.
The Chinese bring in most of the workers, keep them contained – a few stay behind and start lives as small traders. Then each country is seriously indebted to China.
I spent some time with my Roberts’ South African birds book in hand … the Okavango particularly, and around Jhb with friends – not desperately successfully …
I enjoy some sports – but don’t fall into the mode of always watching … tennis, squash, Olympics and a few other sports I’ll enjoy – it’s just this Covid year … I’ve been able to watch a fair amount – but I’d rather be out and about. You’re right there were a few Canadians – and yes I kept an eye on them … after my Victoria Island sojourn.
I’d have loved to have taken a bird-watching tour … but some friends were pretty knowledgeable … the Okavango Delta and the Safari Parks always had checklists for us …
@ Dan – yes I know you’re interested in all things mechanical and construction projects … I’ve got the books on Coventry Cathedral – so will write that up soon …
Thank you … I’ve just found out more about Victoria Falls – so there’ll be some further treats for you!!
Sadly Wimbledon’s finished … but I enjoy the Olympics and the different sports …
@ Alex – my grandfather designed many other things … including Sydney Harbour Bridge … and here other bridges in GB. I’m sure Zimbabwe will regret their decision … it can be overcome – but the bridge was built and so the connection won’t be so straightforward when they decided to join in …
@ Diane – I’ve just been over to read your post … and will link it here = done!
Also I probably decided I’d read your photo diary sometime … and have never got there – still this post wouldn’t have happened probably if I’d been over earlier … serendipity our paths collide …
@ Rosey – thank you … I’ve certainly had an interesting life, and have enjoyed its riches … which I can blog about … so pleased I’m blogging. Zimbabwe is in dire straits anyway … this just makes it worse and will do for the Zimbabwean people.
The Olympic experience opened my eyes to lots of things … that are still coming to light now.
Grandpa was obviously very good (excellent) at what he did … so I’m delighted to have this opportunity to showcase some of his works …
@ Jacqui – I was lucky to be able to get to the bridge from the Zimbabwean side in 1978, especially as the civil war was going on – before Independence in 1980.
Thanks everyone for your interest … I’m so delighted to have blogging friends, who express so much support … brilliant! Cheers Hilary
So many exciting things in this blog post! Love the detail about the bridge, and would love to hear more about your time there.
My Games Mistress (actually our Form Mistress at the time) competed at Tokyo 64, and I was always excited about the Games (but just for the horse sports, oh, and Bobby McGregor, the swimmer) before that.
So I've been an Olympic nut ever since. My colleagues looked after the travel arrangements for 84 or 88, and gave me the Olympic handbook for that year. From about 76 on I always knew someone at the Games, rowing, riding, canoeing, or running, I think. I thought I'd drawn a blank last time, but up popped a guy I rode with at college, now training the US dressage team!
I worked with several people from Zimbabwe, who got work as agency carers after they had to leave their homeland rather hurriedly, having having got on the wrong side of Mr Mugabe. They hoped for a more rational and successful government one day; it sounds as if their prayers are yet unanswered.
Thanks Hilary for linking, and glad you enjoyed the post. Diane
What I know of South Africia is bugga all so found this post interesting
Wow, I'm envious! It would be so cool to see such places, especially during some of the decades you mentioned. :)
You have such a cool and rich history, Hilary. I am so disappointed that we did not take the chance to get together when you lived out this way. Lucky you, I would likely have bombarded you with questions for hours on end! :D
Awesome about your grandfather designing the Victoria Falls Bridge. It looks so beautiful. A shame the new bridge couldn't bring the 4 countries together.
@ John – yes there are a lot of agency carers over from Africa … I found some in the hospitals and nursing centres when my mother was in her last years. You’re right … some form of decent government in Zimbabwe seems not to be there yet …
@ Diane – I was grateful to see your post with its link … I must have a look through your photo-diary …
@ Jo-Anne – thank you …
@ Mark – living in Britain … it’s been easier to travel to some places in the world and I’ve been lucky – thank you.
@ Donna – well … I’d have loved to have ‘gossiped’ with you about China and learnt more – so we have been mutually unlucky about meeting up … sad, perhaps one day …
@ Mason – my father’s family are all pretty special … and my mother’s too – so in that respect I’m extremely fortunate.
The new bridge was designed to cross and tie in all four countries – just Zimbabwe decided they had a boundary dispute … so missed out – hence the re-design.
Thanks so much for coming over and commenting … always great to see each and everyone of you – cheers Hilary
OMG please please write about your time in Africa!! I can't wait to read about your thoughts and experiences. And Victoria Falls has been on my bucket list forever.
Hi Hilary, My brother and sister-in-law were visiting Victoria Falls a few years ago and they sent me photos of the two of them near the Falls. They mentioned how the height was scary. They did have some complicated border stories where they were in a country for one half hour, yet significant fees for this half hour? I cannot imagine the adventures you had and the sites you saw living in that area. Fascinating information about your Grandfather. Complicated about the borders.
I would love to read your thoughts about your experiences in the 1980s! Enjoy tennis….football…..take care🙂
O, that's so unfortunate that Zimbabwe decided to back out. Like you said, they have lost a trade and revenue opportunity.
Looking forward to some interesting insights from your experience while working for the British Olympic Association, and your trip to Munich.
I haven't been to Africa. Must make it some time.
I enjoy your snippets of history Hilary. I think writing about your time in Africa would be an amazing read. I'm glad you are finding many things to keep you busy. So stay well! Hugs xx
This was fascinating, Hilary! I'm not surprised you are a part of history as you impart it so well. I look forward to reading more about your adventures in Africa.
Take care, and may cooler days come your way!
Nostalgia time! I'm delighted that a dear writer friend introduced me to this blog. I lived in Northern Rhodesia from 1938 to 1954 when my father was the consulting metallurgist for the Copperbelt. My brother and I crossed the Victoria Falls Bridge six times a year going back and forth to boarding school in Johannesburg, so it's an honour to know the builder. My first mystery novel called Crocodile Tale includes my fond memories of Africa from Rhodesia to the Cape. Many thanks, Hillary, for the heartwarming time travel!
Oh ow that's all so fascinating having been to so many African courtries. I didn't know these 4 countries come together. How special that your grandfather designed that bridge.
Would love to hear more about Southern Africa and about the Oplympics
Munchen is a beautiful city. Do you speak German as well? You had an interesting life!
Enjoy Wimbledon and the Olympics :)
No kidding, Hilary! You have had [and still are] the most exciting life I can imagine. I'd LOVE to hear about your South Africa adventures. I didn't know 4 countries meet at Victoria Falls area. Stunning! Thank you so much for educating me. And how exciting that your grandfather designed this magnificent bridge. All best to you!
@ Nila – thank you … I’m not sure how much thought about life will be included – as I don’t want to be controversial! but I’ll comment … Sadly there are areas of the world we’re not going to be able to get to … I’d love to see VF from the Zambian side …
@ Erica – how interesting to read about your brother and SIL and their experience at the Falls. It’s an amazing place … and I’ve now got a book on how the bridge was built … so I’d better include that. I’ve always been relatively lucky at borders – but yes – they desperately need/ed money. It was a fun, interesting and stimulating time … possibly better having had time to mull it over.
@ Pradeep – Zimbabwe is a desperate country – ruled by greed and corruption … and selfishness – no leadership for its people.
Thanks re the Olympics … my thoughts are hazy about that time. Africa is wonderful … a great experience …
@ Debby – thank you so much … I’ll enjoy writing up some of my times in Africa – but I’m lucky being able to keep so stimulated with my own experiences/travels … and am glad to read others enjoy these snippets …
@ Diedre – thank you … I’m not sure how I learnt to draft my posts – but once I realised people were interested, I kept on … always including a few different subjects at a time … Africa is on its way.
@ Molly – how fascinating to hear from you – I’m not sure who sent you here … but thank them for me. Your knowledge of those times must be fascinating … I never got to the Copperbelt as I only went out in 1978 and Rhodesia wasn’t friends with Zambia. I’d have loved to have gone over the bridge – so interesting to read your journeys to Jhb and back across the gorge – amazing journeys.
Your novel sounds perfect … ‘Crocodile Tale’ – wonderful you were able to include some of those memories. If you can I’d love to be in touch via email – as I see your profile doesn’t lead me anywhere – thanks in advance.
@ Marja – I was just lucky … but I was fascinated to see the bridge and have that overview map of the quadripoint. Brought back lots of memories.
The Olympics … I hardly remember – but will draft up some notes … and no I don’t speak German, nor Afrikaans – typical Brit who only speaks English!
@ Victoria Marie – thank you so much … I’ll enjoy writing them up, as I’ve been thinking back over life – when there’s not much going on for me. My grandfather and uncle were extraordinarily clever …
Thanks so much for your compliments and encouragement … enjoy the days ahead – we’re in for a hot weekend … the seafront will be packed! Cheers Hilary
Africa is a fascinating subject and I'm sure you could write reams of material on your experiences. I didn't know anything about this bridge, for example - fascinating that your grandfather designed it. Glad you're enjoying the sport - a shame about the final outcome of the football and the ugly reaction from some sides, but it was a good boost overall, I think.
OMGosh. Your grandfather designed Victoria Falls Bridge? How cool is that.
A bridge is a fairly simple thing, but I can imagine the difference that having that connection (or not) will make to the lives of many people.
Lovely photos and bridges! And so wonderful that your grandfather's bridge serves as a visual legacy!
@ Nick - yes I think I've lots to write about ... it'll be interesting to see what I manage to post about. These bridges really fascinate me.
Oh the sport etc re the UK - so many 'funnies' going on right now ... I hope we're not going back into lockdown in a few weeks/months ...
@ Sandra - yes that bridge and a few other structures ...
@ Patsy - it's simple - but mighty difficult to build across a gorge in the early 1900s ... This new Kazangula Bridge will make a huge difference to the region and the rest of Africa ...
@ Elizabeth - thank you ... lots of bridges and pictures of a beautiful part of the world ... and yes it will stand the test of time ...
Thanks so much to the four of you ... so grateful for the comments - cheers Hilary
Greetings, Hilary! Many thanks for responding to my comment. I would love to keep in touch with you. Diedre Knight is the very talented and enthusiastic writer who introduced me to your website. My real-life name is Molly McKinney, email mtmwriter@gmai.com, and if you google "molly mckinney, moon cactus books" you'll see my bio and books which a kind anonymous person put on the internet. Wish I could be visiting the amazing Kasunga Bridge and anywhere in Africa with you. Best wishes and happy travels, which I'd love to hear more about!
That would be Kazungula bridge! I forgot to look up the proper spelling.
Wow, this is fascinating. I'd love to see this bridge in person someday!
Funny, speaking of sports, as I write this comment I'm also watching the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games!
Hi Molly - great to see you here ... ok - great to know it was Diedre who sent you over ... I'll go across to your website and check out your bio and your books etc ...
I'll be writing up more about Africa - as time passes on ... yes I too would love to visit the Kazangula bridge - amazing connectivity for those African countries.
@ Deniz - isn't it .. and yes I'd love to see the bridge in person once at least - actually I'd love to spend more time on Grandpa's bridge - never been possible, when I was there in the 1970s and 1980s.
I must get out my info on my time spent working for the British Olympic Association back in 1972 ... interesting times ...
I haven't yet seen much of Tokyo's Olympics this year ... other things have been happening - but I'll get a chance to catch up soon ...
Cheers to you both ... good to hear from you - thank you for your comments and thoughts - Hilary
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