Vaalpens

Vaalpens (dusty-bellies), as of the beginning of the 20th century, a little-known nomadic people of South Africa, who survive in small groups in the Zoutpansberg and Waterberg districts of the Transvaal, especially along the Magalakwane river. They are akin to the Bushmen. In 1905 their total number was estimated by the Transvaal military authorities at "a few hundreds". The Vaalpens were so called by the Boers from the dusty look of their bodies, due, it is said, to their habit of crawling along the ground when stalking game. But their true color is black. In height the men average about 4 ft., i.e. somewhat less than the shortest Bushmen.