White Train driver, Royal Tour 1947

[Steve Appleton]

A writer has made the following request:

Hi there, I am contacting you in the hope that you can assist me. I am trying to find as much info and / or newspaper cuttings regarding the driver (Pieter du Toit) of The White Train, which was used by The Royal Family during their April 1947 tour of South Africa.

His family are compiling a family history and would dearly like to find any photos possible. If you can help with info, I would very much appreciate it. Thanking you in advance

Take care & have a fabulous day!
Sue

If antone can help, please post the answers here or alternatively email me at: secretary@friendsoftherail.com.

[Steve Appleton]

I have just received this reply which I have forwarded to the enquirer with the suggestion that she contacts the Transnet Heritage Library directly.

I accidently bumped into your question forum and although the question was posted in March – I wondered if the people found any photos.

We have all the Official Royal Tour photos taken by the Railway Photographers in the Heritage Library.

I looked at a few of them and also at the booklet “The Royal Tour of South Africa 1947”. Although there are a few photos of officials (catering and train staff), no names.

If the people can indicate which section Mr du Toit was responsible for – then perhaps I can search for photos of the train traveling in that part of the country. I however doubt if any photos of Mr du Toit in the train will be available.

Kind regards,
Yolanda.