John Daniel Kestell Author: Prof. M. C. E. van Schoor (Marthinus Christianus Ellnarius van Schoor)
John Daniel Kestell (First Edition Copy in Archival Dust Jacket)
A Definitive Biography of the Beloved Afrikaner Leader "Vader Kestell"
Bibliographic Specifications
- Title: John Daniel Kestell
- Author: Prof. M. C. E. van Schoor (Marthinus Christianus Ellnarius van Schoor)
- Publisher: Oorlogsmuseum van die Boererepublieke, Bloemfontein
- Publication Date: 1992
- ISBN-10: 095832641X / ISBN-13: 9780958326414
- Edition Details: First Edition, First Printing. Standard Hardcover Issue.
- Binding: Original publisher's dark cloth-bound hardcover boards with gold title lettering along the spine, issued with an illustrated dust jacket.
- Physical Format: Octavo (8vo), 214 pages. Illustrated with historical photographs and archival prints.
- Language: Afrikaans
Official Condition Report
- The Book: Very Good (VG)
- Exterior / Boards: The original dark cloth boards are flat, square, and structurally sound with sharp corners. The spine is firm, crisp, and completely unbroken, showing only the slightest edge wear from careful handling.
- Interior: The text block is robustly bound and tight. The pages are crisp and clean, showing uniform, age-appropriate toning without any modern text highlighting, dealer ink marks, or library stamps.
- The Dust Jacket: Very Good (VG)
- Condition: The original illustrated paper dust jacket is bright and complete, showing only minimal edge rubbing and no deep tears. It has been fitted with a brand-new, archival-grade clear plastic protective sleeve, preventing future wear and locking in its collectible value.
Synopsis & Historical Value
Published in 1992 by the War Museum of the Boer Republics, John Daniel Kestell is a comprehensive biography of one of the most revered figures in Free State history. Prof. M. C. E. van Schoor traces the remarkable life of Reverend J.D. Kestell (1854–1941), affectionately known across the nation as "Vader Kestell."
The biography explores Kestell's multi-faceted legacy: his heroic service as a frontline chaplain alongside General Christian de Wet during the Anglo-Boer War, his influential role in translating the Bible into Afrikaans, and his later work spearheading social rescue programs for impoverished citizens. Van Schoor draws on private letters and church archives to present a detailed look at Kestell’s deep integrity and his enduring impact on South Africa's spiritual and cultural history. It stands as a scarce and valuable volume for serious military and ecclesiastical Africana collectors.
Author Profile: Prof. M. C. E. van Schoor
Prof. Marthinus Christianus Ellnarius van Schoor (1920–2010) was a distinguished South African historian, author, and academic based in Bloemfontein. Serving for many years as a senior professor of history at the University of the Free State, Van Schoor dedicated his career to studying the history of the Boer Republics and the Anglo-Boer War. His extensive research and long-standing association with the War Museum ensure his biographical works carry immense historical weight and academic authority.
john daniel kestell, mce van schoor, vader kestell biography, oorlogsmuseum van die boererepublieke, rare africana books, christian de wet chaplain, afrikaans bible translation history.
