Description
Footing With Sir Richard’s Ghost by Patricia Glyn is a remarkable travel memoir that retraces the extraordinary 1863 expedition of English gentlemen Sir Richard George Glyn and his brother Robert to Africa. Lured by the continent’s wildlife and the recently “discovered” Victoria Falls, the brothers faced unimaginable hardships, including extreme heat, scarce water, desert navigation, mutiny, and encounters with dangerous animals. Richard’s detailed diary of the journey inspired his great-great-grand niece, Patricia, to follow their route in 2005—entirely on foot.
Accompanied by her small African dog, Tapiwa, Glyn walked nearly 2,200 kilometres along 19th-century wagon trails, experiencing deep desert sand, thornveld, and the perils of Big Five territory. She adhered to her ancestor’s timetable, moving and resting in sync with the original expedition, meeting local communities, and tracking down descendants of those who assisted the Glyn brothers. The narrative weaves together the 19th-century diaries and Patricia’s modern journey, offering a vivid portrait of courage, endurance, and Africa’s enduring beauty and challenges.
This book is perfect for readers of travel memoirs, historical expeditions, and African adventure stories, offering a unique perspective on exploration and family legacy.
