Die Vrystaat en sy mense (Collectible First Edition Copy)
A Definitive Cultural and Historical Record of the Orange Free State
Bibliographic Specifications
- Title: Die Vrystaat en sy mense
- Author: Piet Grobbelaar
- Publisher: Tafelberg-Uitgewers, Cape Town
- Publication Date: 1980
- ISBN-10: 0624014835
- Edition Details: First Edition. A classic regional history celebrating the heritage and pioneer families of the Free State plains.
- Binding: Original hardboards with illustrated cover layout, matching dust jacket.
- Physical Format: Large Octavo (8vo). Fully illustrated with archival photographs, historical sketches, and cultural records.
- Language: Afrikaans
Official Condition Report
- The Book: Very Good (VG)
- Exterior / Boards: The hardboards are square, corners sharp, and the spine remains straight and uncreased. Clean surfaces without handling stains.
- Interior: The paper block is tightly bound and clean. Margins are clear, pages lack aging spots or tenant ink signatures, showcasing excellent structural care.
- The Dust Jacket: Fair (F)
- Condition: Displays pronounced edge wear, minor rubbing along the spine hinges, and slight age-related discolouration concentrated near the borders. The jacket is now preserved inside a clean, modern protective plastic wrap to halt future fading or corner splits.
Synopsis & Historical Value
Piet Grobbelaar's Die Vrystaat en sy mense is an expansive narrative tapestry outlining the social history, folklore, and pioneer spirit of the Orange Free State. The text covers the development of rural farming communities, the foundational towns, and the deep cultural traditions forged by the early residents of the province. Accompanied by incredible historical photo prints, the book is a highly sought-after reference document for genealogists and collectors focused on central South African settlement history.
Author Profile: Piet Grobbelaar
Professor Pieter Willem Grobbelaar (19302013) was an eminent South African academic, cultural historian, and legendary expert in Afrikaans folklore. Serving as a longtime professor at Stellenbosch University, he committed his life to capturing the oral histories, folk songs, and traditions of rural communities, publishing numerous core textbooks that protected local folklore from shifting modern trends.
die vrystaat en sy mense, piet grobbelaar, tafelberg 1980, isbn 0624014835, free state history books, afrikaanse kultuurgeskiedenis, used collectible book
