August 2018 - Sneak Peek

Figure 3. Basutoland, Scott 76 and3. Figure 4. Gold Coast, Scott 136.
single flow in southern Africa, is located on a tributary of the Orange River sourced from the
Drakensberg mountain range forming the backdrop on Basutoland 1933 and 1938 crocodile
definitives.
The sacred Lake Bosumtwi in Ghana is an almost circular depression surrounded by
green hills. Revered by the Ashantil people, the lake, formerly taboo for metal boats is now a
popular relaxation venue for the local people. A fine view is featured on Gold Coast stamps
[Figure 4].
Different aspects of the awesome Victoria Falls – now at the border of Zimbabwe and
Zambia – are depicted on several stamps of Northern Rhodesia, Southern Rhodesia (Scott
36 and 37A) and Rhodesia and Nyasaland. Also featured by Southern Rhodesia is a view of
the Zambezi River just below the falls [Figure 5].
Figure 5. Southern
Rhodesia, Scott 37A
and 61.
Figure 6. Mauritius, Scott 239, 245 and 255.
In 1950 and 1954, Mauritius, located in the Indian Ocean, issued stamps featuring two spectacular peaks [Figure
6]. Rempart Mountain and Pieter Both, where a prominent gigantic rock perched on the summit resembles a
human head. Climbing these mountains is not for the faint hearted as YouTube videos clearly indicate. Another
scenic gem is Tamarind Falls comprised of a series of seven spectacular cascades.
Figure 7. Ceylon, Scott 272, 265 and 310.
Ceylon’s 1935 and 1938 definitives depict the magnificent view of a large lake inscribed “ancient irrigation
tank” [Figure 7]. The intriguing history of these reservoirs is revealed by searching the web for “Parakrama
Samudrya.” Selections of these lakes appear on YouTube clips, though it is not known which was selected by the
stamp designer. Perhaps someone can tell me.
Other natural wonders on Ceylon stamps include the mystical Adam’s Peak. Muslim faith claims that Adam
stood on one foot for 1,000 years after being cast out of Eden. The belief emanates from a large depression resembling
a giant human footprint located close to the summit at 7,360 feet. The incredible history surrounding the
600-foot-high granite block of Lion Rock, or Sigiriya, can be revealed by a fascinating narrative and photographs,
AUGUST 2018 / AMERICAN PHILATELIST 755