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From: "Alison Geer" <>
Subject: Waagensdrift / CUYLER
Date: Thu, 9 Dec 2004 18:47:09 +0200


Hi all

Have posted this to British immigrants as well as I see Glen, Sharon, Ellen
and others were posting info on this name. Unfortunately my gggrandfather's
grave has not been found on Waagensdrift Farm but there are members of the
original owner's family buried there. Mr Potgieter who has farmed
Waagensdrift for 46 years has extensive knowledge about the history of the
farm. I pass on what he has imparted to me, with corrections gratefully
received as always. Cuyler (Luitenant General of the army and Landros of the
Eastern Cape) acquired the land in 1814. His ancestory was Dutch and the
name was apparently originally SCHUIJLER. They moved to America before
settling here. Waagensdrift was the place on the Swartkops River where the
salt and fresh water met and was the only place where cattle could cross
with the wagons, hence the name. The farm has thus seen many English and
Dutch travellers in it's time (if only it could talk!!!). Basically everyone
moving North from Port Elizabeth, I guess, as it would have been the nearest
crossing without trekking inland.

Mr Potgieter has kindly invited me,after a long phone conversation, to visit
him in the new year. I will document (and photograph) the graves there (all
Cuyler) and advise further.
Regards
Alison

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