Huberta the Hippo is one of South Africa’s most beloved animals. Likely born in Natal, this hippo came to public notice in 1928 when she started wandering for two and a half years down the Natal coast to the eastern Cape — a journey of over 1000 kms. Conspicuous enough to be spotted with some regularity, she gathered something a following, often dogged by curious onlookers who’d poke and prod her when she was hiding in the bushes. No one knew what prompted Huberta’s epic journey, which sadly came to an untimely end on the Keiskamma River in April 1931. By the time of her death, she’d become a popular symbol of courage and fortitude.
Using the story of this well beloved figure of South African animal lore, children’s book illustrator 
Sarah Garson helped coordinate a children’s picture book project for the Keiskamma Aids and Treatment Centre in Hamburg, South Africa. Hamburg is located on the Keiskamma River and its inhabitants are familiar with Huberta’s tale. Working with patients from the centre, Garson led the group in drawing and doing embroidery about the story. The embroideries were then scanned, text added, and then bound into a picture book. Later, children from the local school contributed to the project by making masks related to the story which were used for performances.
Developing this children’s book using embroidery and drawing is part of the work of the Keiskamma Trust whose vision is to use art in the aid of healing, particularly of those suffering from the scourge of AIDS. The putting together of this children’s book about Huberta the Hippo helped consolidate the bonds of this community in a unique and delightful way. The wandering hippo has found a home in a new interpretation of her journeys in the embroidered artwork of the people of Hamburg.
