Wolraad Woltemade
Wolraad Woltemade (c.
Wolraad Woltemade was a Cape Dutch dairyman who died rescuing sailors from a shipwreck in Table Bay in 1773. His story became a lasting symbol of self-sacrifice in South African history.
Who was Wolraad Woltemade
Born around 1708, Woltemade worked as a dairyman or farmer in the Cape Colony. Some later accounts describe him as German-born and associated with the Dutch East India Company. He lived near Table Bay and was known locally before the events of 1 June 1773.
The rescue of De Jonge Thomas
During a violent storm, the ship De Jonge Thomas wrecked near the shore. Woltemade rode his horse into the rough surf repeatedly, pulling sailors to safety. He reportedly saved fourteen people before being overwhelmed by a large wave and drowning.
Why his story endures
Woltemade's selfless act became one of the best-known hero legends from early Cape history. His courage and sacrifice are retold in South African historical accounts and popular memory, often used as an example of bravery in the face of certain death.
In short
- Cape Dutch dairyman who rescued sailors from a shipwreck
- Rode his horse into rough surf to save 14 people
- Drowned during the rescue on 1 June 1773
- Became a lasting symbol of self-sacrifice in South African history
Quick questions
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Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolraad_WoltemadeSupports: Basic biographical details, death date, and shipwreck rescue narrative.
- The South Africa Guide — https://www.thesouthafricaguide.com/famous-south-africans-and-history/history-of-south-africa-south-african-heroes-wolraad-woltemade/Supports: Background on Woltemade, the shipwreck rescue, and his later reputation as a hero.
- Look and Learn — https://www.lookandlearn.com/blog/15623/unflinching-dutch-courage-was-shown-by-wolraad-woltemade/Supports: Narrative details of the rescue attempt and his drowning.