PJ Philip

Full name: Percy James Philip

Lifespan: born c1870s

Occupation: Adventurer

Photo from The Agricultural Journal of SA, May 1917.

Philip was a Scottish-born adventurer, tradesman, and early settler in South Africa's Witwatersrand region, whose life exemplified the migratory and resilient spirit of many immigrants during the early 20th century. Born in Edinburgh, Scotland Philip emigrated to South Africa in 1902, shortly after the conclusion of the Anglo-Boer War. Seeking opportunity in the post-war landscape, he arrived in Cape Town and immediately took up work as a bricklayer.

A few months later, drawn by the promise of the goldfields, Philip relocated to Johannesburg. There, he labored for various contractors and on the Village Main Mine, contributing to the industrial growth of what was rapidly becoming the "Golden City." However, his adventurous nature soon propelled him beyond the Transvaal. In 1904, he ventured northward to Rhodesia, visiting Bulawayo and the majestic Victoria Falls before embarking on an arduous trek to Lake N'Gami (now in Botswana). Traveling by ox wagon from Palapye Siding, the journey took him 11 weeks.

Philip spent four years at Lake N'Gami, where he continued his bricklaying work and formed a partnership in a wagon-making business with a friend. This period of relative stability was cut short when he contracted malaria fever, prompting his return to more civilized regions. His route back was equally epic: he crossed through Damaraland (in present-day Namibia) to Windhuk, then visited Keetmanshoek and Swakopmund before boarding a steamer to Cape Town. From there, he made his way back to the Transvaal, resuming his trade amid the familiar mines.

During World War I he enlisted with the 7th South African Infantry and served in the East Africa campaign (against German forces in what was then German East Africa, now Tanzania). Invalided home due to illness - likely another bout of fever - he once again returned to mining work in Johannesburg.

Mr Philip played an active part in the establishment of Sunshine Settlements on the East Rand, and was the first settler on the estate, owning a 10 acre block.

In answer to my question, “Why did you decide to take up farming?” Mr. Philip remarked : “One day when I was lying sick with fever in German East Africa, I determined from henceforth to bank any money I had in land. The fixed conviction grew into my soul that I would make a success in farming, and that is why I have decided to take up land. If ever I do not wish to continue to work at my trade, at least I shall always have a bit of land to reside upon. That gives one a sense of security and independence.”

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Sources

• Agricultural Journal of SA. May, 1917.