- +27 82 328 2755
- [email protected]
- The Old Mushroom Farm, 11 Karkloof Rd, Howick, RSA
R0.00
R325.00
In Timber and Tides – The Story of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, Tapson weaves together a compelling narrative that covers the region’s maritime history, the timber trade that underpinned early economic life, and the colourful characters — from ship captains and sailors to entrepreneurial settlers — who made these towns vibrant hubs of activity.
1 in stock
Timber and Tides – The Story of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay by Winifred Tapson 1963 General Litho Ltd is a richly detailed historical account of two of South Africa’s most iconic coastal settlements, offering readers both narrative history and cultural insight into the people, industries, and environments that shaped the southern Cape. Written by Winifred Tapson and published in 1963 by General Litho Ltd, this work documents the evolution of Knysna and nearby Plettenberg Bay from their earliest European settlement through the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, with particular emphasis on timber, shipping, community development, and natural heritage.
In Timber and Tides – The Story of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, Tapson weaves together a compelling narrative that covers the region’s maritime history, the timber trade that underpinned early economic life, and the colourful characters — from ship captains and sailors to entrepreneurial settlers — who made these towns vibrant hubs of activity. Much attention is given to the ships that plied the waters between the Southern Cape and larger ports, transporting valuable timber harvested from the ancient forests surrounding Knysna. The text expands to include episodes of local gold mining, elephant hunts, silk spinning, and other endeavours that contributed to the cultural fabric of the communities.
Tapson also explores the legendary stories tied to the region’s foundation, including the settlement by George Rex and the enduring mythos around his life and family. Illustrations and cartes, including genealogical material such as the Rex family tree and maps, enrich the reader’s understanding of place and lineage. The book’s 192 pages reflect thorough research, supported by archival sources and local memory, making Timber and Tides – The Story of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay both a reference and a narrative history that remains valuable for anyone interested in the heritage of South Africa’s Garden Route.
As a mid‑century historical study, this 1963 General Litho Ltd edition stands out for its breadth and local insight, appealing to collectors of regional history, South African heritage enthusiasts, and readers drawn to detailed explorations of community development within spectacular natural settings. Whether used for research or casual reading, Timber and Tides – The Story of Knysna and Plettenberg Bay by Winifred Tapson 1963 General Litho Ltd offers an enduring testament to the landscapes and lives of this remarkable coastal region.
Condition – Very Good
This ex-library copy is protected in a very good dust jacket that has been covered in archival-style plastic for added preservation. Internally, there is a library stamp on the front endpaper, with an ink notation on the inside front cover. A further library stamp appears on the verso of the front endpaper, while remnants of the original library pocket remain on the half-title page. The book is otherwise well-preserved, presenting as a solid and attractive reading or reference copy despite its former library provenance.
