Trooper's Monument | Francistown

The Trooper's Monument is a memorial located in Francistown, Botswana. It commemorates the actions of Sergeant Major Samuel Lewis and his patrol during the 1896 rebellion.

Visual Characteristics

The monument consists of a central granite obelisk, approximately 5 meters in height. The obelisk is topped with a bronze statue depicting a standing trooper in military uniform. The base of the obelisk is a concrete plinth, approximately 1 meter high, with inscribed bronze plaques detailing the historical event. The surrounding area is a cleared, gravel-covered space.

Location & Access Logistics

The Trooper's Monument is situated on the eastern outskirts of Francistown, approximately 3 kilometers from the city center. Access is via the A1 highway, turning onto Independence Avenue. The monument is located on the north side of Independence Avenue. Parking is available on a designated gravel lot adjacent to the monument. No public transport routes directly serve the monument; visitors typically arrive by private vehicle or taxi.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The monument was erected in 1932 to honor Sergeant Major Samuel Lewis and his patrol, who were instrumental in suppressing the 1896 rebellion in the region. The site itself is part of the semi-arid savanna ecosystem characteristic of eastern Botswana, with sparse acacia trees and dry grasses.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can observe the bronze statue and read the historical inscriptions on the plaques. The site serves as a point of historical interest and reflection. No specific activities are organized at the monument.

Infrastructure & Amenities

There are no restrooms or shade structures at the Trooper's Monument. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available in the vicinity. No food vendors are located directly at the monument site; amenities are available in Francistown city center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for viewing the monument is during the morning or late afternoon when the sun's angle provides optimal lighting on the bronze statue and inscriptions. The dry season, from May to October, offers the most pleasant weather conditions with lower humidity and minimal rainfall.

Facts & Legends

A specific detail often overlooked is that the bronze statue was cast in London and shipped to Botswana for installation. Local lore suggests that on clear nights, the shadow cast by the obelisk is said to point towards the original location of Sergeant Major Lewis's patrol camp, though this has not been verified.

Nearby Landmarks

• Francistown City Centre (3km West)
• Tati River (1.5km South)
• Old Location Cemetery (2.5km West)
• Supa Ngwao Museum (3.5km West)