User:Jgmrichter/Pieter Johannes

Piet Potgieter

Piet Potgieter was born on 24 December 1822. His Mother was Elizabeth Helena, and his father Andries Hendrik Potgieter (Voortrekker Leader). He married Elsje Aletta van Heerden in Potchefstroom.

They had 4 daughters and 3 sons. The youngest son, Pieter Johannes, was born on 19 January 1855, after Piet Potgieter died. Piet Potgieter had his farm at Middelfontein 16km from Nylstroom.

During September 1854 the murders took place at Moordrift, A commando went out after Makapan (mokopane) and Piet Potgieter and MW Pretorius were in charge of their own Boer Group.

While the people of Makapan were besieged at the Makapans Caves, on 6 November, Piet Potgieter was shot and fell behind the stone walls. Paul Kruger a close friend, jumped after Piet Potgieter and carried him out while there was still heavy shooting.

Piet Potgieter was buried at his Farm Middelfontein, near Nylstroom.

Piet Potgieter was reburied on 30 May 1964 at Potgietersrus. His grave is situated in Ruiter Road on the Municipal grounds, opposite the Post Office.(1)

(1) Arend Dieperink Museum, Mokopane