Thaimi and the Ombalantu refuge tree

Overview

Thaimi discovers raiders, sounds a drum and leads people to a hollow baobab. They open its side and shelter people, animals and grain inside.

Her fire makes the tree appear a great spirit to the raiders, who flee. This authored story is distinct from the museum’s historical refuge-tree account; its miraculous capacity is narrative.

Origins & earliest records

Earlier oral source unestablished.

Records & interpretation

Native story pages 3–13; museum context.

Selected bibliography

Documented works and useful reading. This is not a list of every appearance.

1. 01

   The Tree That Saved the Village of Ombalantu

   Karen von Wiese, Beryl Salt, Mudhni Grimwood, Barbara Meyerowitz · 1988

Family & connections

A source-supported family tree or inspiration record has not yet been compiled for this profile. Related reading below indicates a connection in subject matter, not a proven lineage or creative influence.

References

Sources supporting this profile. Linked pages have their own scope and editorial standards.

1. Authored retellingAttributed storyResearch access: 2026-10-11
2. Museum heritage contextBaobab TreeResearch access: 2026-10-11

Image credits

AI interpretation of the Ombalantu refuge-tree story.

Modern AI interpretation. Narrative setting imagined.