Photographer's Note
This was taken at Fort Schanskop, close to the Voortrekker Monument.
After the Jameson Raid in 1896, Pres Paul Kruger of the "Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek" decided to protect Pretoria by constructing forts in strategic places. Initially eight forts were to be built, but due to a shortage of funds, only four were completed.
Fort Schanskop was completed in 1897 and was built in such a way to avert possible attacks on Pretoria. By mounting revolving artillery on the embankment of the fort, attacks from all directions could be warded off.
At the outbreak of the Anglo-Boer war the soldiers and armament were transferred to the Natal front, leaving the fort undefended. After the invasion of Pretoria by Gen Roberts, the British occupied the forts.
In 1938 the Historical Monument Commission declared Schanskop a historical monument. It is now a museum covering the Anglo-Boer War for the period 1899-1914. There is a photographic display on various aspects of the Anglo-Boer War.
On this shot you can see the doors leading to the different rooms of the fort, as they were used at the time. Those rooms now house photographic displays around that specific aspect of the war. For instance in "Stal" (stable) you'll see photographs on the role of the horse in the war. "Hospitaal" portrays the medical conditions, and in "Manschappen" you'll see portraits and short biographical sketches of the Boer generals. You can also see a photographic overview of the war, displays on the arms and ammunition of Boer and Brit as well as the history of the Fort.
Apparently this is a popular venue for conferences and weddings. Part of the renovations also include a small amphitheatre that is used for concerts and church services.
I took this from the steps of the amphitheatre. Unfortunately I couldn't zoom out any more than what I did. I can picture soldiers tying their horses to this tree.
PP: Cropped, removed a huge flagpole that was jutting up behind the tree.
Critiques | Translate
Tweety
(4546) 2004-03-27 3:09
Belle composition ! Cet arbre qui s'étale en largeur a un effet parasol qui a l'air fort utile ! De belles couleurs et une note très intéressante.
nwoehnl
(122) 2004-03-28 11:29
A pity that this image has not drawn more comments, Su. I think you found a beautiful shooting position here that uses the grand tree in a wonderful way covering the whole width of your frame. Plus, the tree seems to be acting almost like a kind of protective roof over the fort - a beautiful structure. The shot is rich and detailed with good colors and contrast. The two kids enjoying the shadow of the tree are a fine addition to the scene. And finally, I don't think your notes could be any better. Great work!
Oldtree
(2457) 2004-09-17 2:22
I like this shot alot. First of all the tree is very nice. But your composition is excellent and you captured the light very well.
Well done, Su.
Photo Information
-
Copyright: Su Lucas (sulucas)
(229)
- Genre: People
- Medium: Color
- Date Taken: 2003-11-11
- Categories: Architecture
- Camera: Nikon Coolpix 950, UV
- Photo Version: Original Version
- Date Submitted: 2004-03-27 2:29
Discussions
- To nwoehnl: Protective tree (2)
by sulucas, last updated 2004-03-30 06:10