Fugitives’ Drift, South Africa

admin — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 07:11:49 +0000

In the Lodge

Who They Are

The Zulu War of 1879 is famous throughout the English-speaking world for the great battles of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. The spectacular Fugitives’ Drift, a Natural Heritage Site, overlooks both Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift, and includes the site where Lieutenants Melvill and Coghill lost their lives attempting to save the Queen’s Color of their regiment.

The reserve offers a choice of accommodations in either the Lodge or the Guest House, both owned by Nicky Rattray and born out of her and her former husband’s extensive experience in hospitality. Evident in every corner of Fugitives’ Drift is their love of South Africa, its people, and its unique history. Both properties have swimming pools set in their colorful, well-established gardens, home to numerous bird species. There are also two farmhouses, Umzinyathi and Kwageorge, offering more rustic accommodations.

A Lodge Bedroom

Battlefield at Isandlwana

Browsing Fugitives' History

What They Are Doing

David Rattray, who died tragically in January 2007, devoted much of his life to the study of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, the reconciliation of the people of South Africa, and the promotion of the Zulu people around the world.

After his death, the generosity of friends and admirers helped raise significant funds that were then used to launch The David Rattray Foundation in his memory and to carry on with his good work. The foundation’s main purpose is to further the cause of reconciliation in South Africa by promoting discussion through historical and political lectures, and thereby raising funds, and by supporting local upliftment projects, especifically in the areas of education and health in northern KwaZulu-Natal.

The Mangeni Falls

After on-site visits by board members and consultation with community leaders, the foundation put electricity in one school, built a library at a second, and it is busy adding three classrooms to a third. The foundation plans to extend its work, which is done by volunteers, across northern KwaZulu Natal.

In Their Own Words

A World Different » Fugitives’ Drift — A World Different

Fugitives’ Drift, South Africa