Blood River is the site of one of the most famous battles in South Africa’s history. In 1838 the Voortrekkers, under the command of Andries Pretorius, defeated Dingane's Zulu army and avenged the massacre of Piet Retief and his followers at Mgungundlovu. Their victory here ensured the survival of the Voortrekkers in the area and paved the way for the establishment of the Republic of Natalia. A full-size replica of a laager, ox wagons laid out in a circular formation, is located on the site and tells much about the Voortrekkers defense against both Zulu raids and nocturnal animals.