Letter: The Karkloof Polo Club vs. Dargle Polo Club (1896)

Manuscript letter, dated November 17, 1896, offering a fascinating, firsthand glimpse into the social fabric and sporting history of the colonial Natal Midlands—specifically highlighting the deep-rooted origins of South African polo.

The Dargle vs. Karkloof Polo Rivalry

On page 7 the writer notes:

"The Dargle versus the Karkloof. The latter won 5 to love. They voted by ballot - Dr Ruiter [or Reitz] was left out."

The Karkloof Polo Club (founded in 1892) and the neighboring Dargle Polo Club are among the absolute oldest polo clubs in South Africa. In the late 19th century, the Natal Midlands became the epicenter of the sport in the country, largely introduced by British garrison officers and enthusiastically adopted by local farming families. A score of "5 to love" captured in a personal letter provides a rare, informal record of these early inter-club matches that standard sports archives often miss.

Key Historical Details in the Text

 Polo Club Logistics: On page 6 the writer mentions local administration changes: "Dr. Griffin has given up the Secretaryship of the Polo Club", reflecting how central the club's management was to the local community's social diary.

 The Johannesburg Gold Rush Era: On page 4 a mention is made of someone "thinking of taking a situation in Johannesburg". In 1896, Johannesburg was booming following the 1886 gold discovery, drawing people from all over the Natal colony looking to make their fortunes.

 The Cost of Living: The letter highlights the stark economic realities of the period, juxtaposing a massive sum—"£9000 is an awful lot of money" with everyday concerns over the family's "wool money" and hoping for a modest "£5" Christmas present.

It's a wonderful piece of social history, preservation, and local sport heritage captured right on the page.

Minor wear and creasing.

225mm x 175mm

R2,500