The Herero people of Namibia speak the same language, as the Himba.  They actually were at one time Himba.  When the Christian Missionaries arrived in Namibia, they were offended by the semi-nakedness of the Himba people. Some of the Himba complied with the Missionaries request to clothe themselves.  They fashioned themselves after the Missionaries, donning Victorian dress, which they still wear to this day. They called themselves Herero. 

The Herero women wear long flowing petticoats and gowns and all wear their distinctive large brimmed hats, when they are outside the home. The shape of the hat is held in place by a piece of light weight wood which is sewn into the hat. The hats provide much needed shade, in a barren environment.

The Herero have experienced a history of unrest. They staged a massive uprising against the German colonists at Waterberg, where many were killed.  Many fled into the Kalahari and some crossed into what is now called Botswana.  Today they make up about 8% of the population of Namibia.

Traditionally, the Herero were pastoralists and farmed cattle. Today many use their cattle handling skills on commercial farms.

Photographs included in the collection:

All Dressed Up 430

Meeting Friends 433

Keeping Warm 1756

The Hat Maker 1860

Matriarch of the Family 1776

Enjoying the Morning Sun 1783

Traditional Herero Dress 452