Heritage Today's Podcast: Recent Episodes
Heritage Today
ROOTS AND SHOOTS – JEWISH GENEALOGY IN SOUTH AFRICA
Family history is at the heart of heritage. Our world was built by our ancestors. Everyone has roots – ancestors , antecedents and family histories that matter to us. Many people are enthusiastic about discovering who their great grandparents were and where they came from. How far can the family tree be stretched back into the remote past? Many of us are parents and pass on our family histories to our children and grandchildren. How do you discover your “roots” in order to inform your “shoots”?
Dr Saul Issroff, South African genealogical specialist is in town. Dr Issroff is a Wits educated doctor who now lives in London. His passion is Jewish genealogy and he is the Past President of the Jewish Genealogical Society of Great Britain and is deputy chairman of the International Institute of Jewish Genealogy.
He has researched and written extensively on Jewish family histories in South Africa. Saul founded and runs a South African Special Interest Group on Jewish Genealogy. A South African Jewish Database has been compiled and this work is ongoing. Saul advises people on finding their ancestors and researching their family histories. There are records of 15000 core families who emigrated from Europe to South Africa between 1850 and 1950. Saul 's main interests are South African genealogy and migration, Lithuanian and Latvian genealogy, holocaust history, British Genealogy and Genetic Genealogy.
Saul joins Kathy Munro of Johannesburg Heritage Foundation in conversation about family history and where to find essential data for genealogical research. As Kathy is interested in family history research and, in particular, the records of South Africans who served in World War I and II , this is likely to be a lively and informative conversation.
Tune in to –
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If you fail to know your past you lack an anchor to project your children into the future. Heritage is about preserving our collective past to give future generations a basis for understanding the visible survivals from the past decades but also thinking ahead to give a meaningful vision to the future. Roots become shoots. Mark Inman owns a small bookshop, Old Limpopo in Parkview that concentrates on paper, books, maps, quirky finds and unusual memorabilia. All his interests are representations of Johannesburg heritage. He is passionate about preserving collections that constitute archives. He helps people build book collections and to recognize the value of their personal heritage. He is a conservator and ensures that memorabilia becomes treasures. Mark also a Johannesburg local Parkview history enthusiast. Mark meets Kathy Munro of Johannesburg Heritage Foundation to discuss how families should handle what's in granny's attic and how to find expertise to identify your treasures and your family heritage. He also discusses Parkview history with Kathy.
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From its earliest days, Johannesburg has been photographed from many angles to reveal thousands aspects of life, events, people. There is a vast photographic archive in the city.
We have a photographic museum, the Bensuzan collection in Museum Africa. Every photograph and every photographer tells a story and the photographic image from black and white to full colour had achieved a status as important as the written. The image makes an impact, captures an unforgettable event or becomes a work of art. It's a truism that every picture is worth a thousand words but those enduring images becomes part of the historical record of the city. Johannesburg is 130 years and its lifespan roughly coincides with the camera and the photograph coming of age.
Today the moods of the city and its heritage provide untold opportunities for the photographer. Gail Wilson, a tour leader of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation and an active member of Johannesburg Photowalkers, converses with Kathy Munro about her work as a photographer of Johannesburg and capturing the many heritage places, spaces and events with her camera.
The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation is keenly interested in photography and for the last couple of years over Heritage Weekend Gail has been involved with mounting a city photographs exhibition. RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY, 7th MARCH BETWEEN 10h45 AND 11h15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM or DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi
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Estelle Bester is an unusual person. She has built her career in local government, housing and now tour guiding in Soweto. Estelle is someone who has crossed boundaries and challenged stereotypes. She is a white Afrikaans woman who has worked passionately for positive change and enriching the lives of others for over forty years. During a lifetime of immersing herself in Soweto culture, history, and local administration she has met challenges with a practical can do attitude . Estelle goes the extra mile to step into the shoes of others and in the process has enriched her life and those of many fellow South Africans.
Kathy Munro meets Estelle Bester to talk about her life and work in Soweto in its many dimensions over many decades Estelle's insights are unique . They will explore why Soweto history and heritage is an integral, successful and essential part of Johannesburg .
HERITAGE TODAY, ON TUESDAY, 28th FEBRUARY, 2017 BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi
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On 21 February we commemorate the centenary of the tragic loss of lives on that day , 21 February 1917 , when the ship , the SS Mendi, a converted troop ship sank off the Isle of Wight in the English Channel on its way to France. 646 men were lost when the Mendi was accidentally rammed by a much larger cargo ship the SS Daro. Tragically 616 men who died were members of the South African Native Labour Corp, comprising 606 black volunteers from all parts of South Africa and 9 white officers. It was as great a tragedy and as significant in the shaping of South African national identity as the loss of the South African soldiers who had fought and died in the Battle of Delville wood and the other engagements of the Battle of the Somme of 1916 Today we commemorate that loss and remember with sadness both the men who died on 21st February and whose who survived and who went on to serve as non-combatants in France. Their sacrifice and service in the cause of the British Empire and Britain in World War 1 is an unforgettable part of our history. The highest award for bravery in South Africa today is the Order of the Mendi.
Eric Itzkin, Acting Director, Directorate of Arts, Culture & Heritage, Department of Community Development in Johannesburg City Administration joins Kathy Munro on Heritage Today to talk about the work of the city in the restoration of the Mendi memorial at Avalon Cemetery and why Johannesburg believes this memorial to be a fitting tribute to the Lost Men of the Mendi . Eric has campaigned for a city active, alert and alive to its history, it's culture and it's monuments. HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
What a perfect day to present “Heritage Today”, and who better to be our guest on the show than Dr Neil Viljoen, who is probably one of the most supportive of Heritage, both as a trustee of Johannesburg Heritage Trust, and, with his wife, Jenny, are caring for one of Parktown’s most impressive mansions, “NORTHWARDS”. Neil has also done a lot of work on researching John and Jose Dale Lace, who developed the property, and has many anecdotes on them and their life in the early mining city. HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
February is Black History Month and one of our guests himself played a role in that History. Seth Mazibuko was member of the committee which organised the schools’ protest march on 16th June 1976. Aged just 16 Seth was arrested, incarcerated in the punishment cells at Number 4 until he was finally charged and brought to trial. Found guilty he was sent to Robben Island where ironically he was able to finish his education in English and obtain his Bachelor’s degree as well.
He is joined by Tshenolo Mokhele who is promoting interest in the heritage of Orlando East, the first township established by the Johannesburg municipality. Orlando East turns 85 this year and has been home to many famous personalities as well as the much loved Orlando Pirates soccer team.
Seth is asking how much do our schools teach of black history since history is no longer a subject in its own right. Please e-mail flo@joburgheritage if you have the answer.
HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
Dube which was intended to be the Upmarket suburb in Soweto became home to 200 returning soldiers after World War II. Flo Bird will be talking to Cheche Selepe a journalist and community activist who is passionate about the neighbourhood, its history, the prominent citizens and the recognition he wants for the role it has played in the field of Sports, the Arts and business. Dube has been home to many distinguished people - Theo Mthembu with his boxing academy, playwright Gibson Kente and the late Frank Sexwale, the veteran who refused to forget he was an old soldier World War 11; Professor Vilakazi the distinguished academic and first black Professor at Wits University, not forgetting Mr Richard Maponya the businessman who developed retail in Soweto to match anything on offer in Sandton. Developing a tourism trail is Cheche’s big project ahead of Black History Month in February and we would like to support him. HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
Probably one of the most cosmopolitan neighbourhoods in Johannesburg, Yeoville and its surrounding suburbs have been home to a huge variety of religions and boasts some fine heritage churches and synagogues. These reflect the microcosm of the growth and transformation of the City from a mining camp to a “World class city”.
Our guest this morning will be Maurice Smithers, who is an expert in the history of this area, having started as a Community Development Activist and is now operating tours of Yeoville and Bellevue, Past and Present. Apart from talking about the history and architecture of the notable churches , St Aidan’s, St Marks, St Francis of Assisi and the Yeoville and Chassidic shuls, we will be covering the many new organisations which are being established in the area, including the Revelation Truth of God on the top of the Yeoville Ridge.
Join Den Adams and Maurice Smithers this Tuesday on:
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A prestigious art and antiques auction house has considerable responsibility for the recognition of and research into art works and what we can call movable heritage. Art, fine antiques, furniture, antiquarian books, quality silver ceramic, clocks and oriental rugs are all legacy objects which fill the heritage homes of South Africa. These are precious possessions passed through the generations and through the auction house ensure a new ownership to treasure and appreciate. The task of the auction house is to advise, research provenance, market and ensure that new generations of collectors have the opportunity to acquire beautiful objects d'art at fair market prices. Auction houses both advises purchasers and enable previous owners to realize their assets. Their role as a middle man in business is significant in bringing together buyer and seller. Auctions are irresistible, exciting, fun and can be dangerous!! Kathy Munro of Johannesburg Heritage meets Alastair Meredith, an art expert from Strauss and Company, to discuss the business of art auctions, the role of the auctioneer in heritage preservation and the challenges of the current market. Listen to their discussion on – RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY, 13th DECEMBER BETWEEN 10h45 AND 11h15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM or DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVER
Transport has changed so much over the years along Joburg streets and there have been astonishing developments which have changed the shape of the town to a city to a metropolis. Flo Bird will be chatting to James Smith and Andrew McKay, who has always been involved in transport issues in the City, from the days of retaining the trolley buses with their poles which came off at sharp corners when the driver went too fast, to the Gautrain. Changing from simple protest to active involvement, he joined the Friends of the James Hall Transport Museum and has specialised in public transport, though the Museum covers lots of private vehicles including motor bikes, motor cars and even the old horse-and-carriage. On Open Days the Friends give rides on a trailer behind a steam traction engine, a London bus, Model T Fords and occasionally on an Orange which is brought out for a run. Situated at Wemmer Pan, this is a fun museum, but with much serious interest from aficionados and work parties filled with grease, spanners and fun. HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
On January 16, 1917 the Mendi troopship sailed from Cape Town en route to La Havre in France carrying the last contingent of the South African Native Labour Corp comprising 805 black private, 5 white officers and 17 non-commissioned officers as well as 33 crewmembers. The SANLC comprised men who had been recruited throughout South Africa to serve as workers and labourers on war fronts but not as armed soldiers. On the morning of 21 February 1917, another ship, the SS Darro travelling at full speed and emitting no warning signals, rammed the SS Mendi, which sank in 20 minutes. No steps were taken by the SS Darro to lower boats or rescue the survivors. She stood off and floated nearby while lifeboats from the SS Mendi's escorting destroyer, HMS Brisk, rowed among the survivors, trying to rescue them. There are many stories of bravery about the men's bravery as the ship went down. One of them is that of the Reverend Isaac Wauchope Dyobha, who cried words of encouragement to the dying men: "Be quite and calm my countrymen, for what is taking place now is what you came here to do. We are all going to die, and that is what we came for. Brothers, we are drilling the death drill. I, a Zulu, say here and now that you are all my brothers... Xhosas, Swazis, Pondos, Basotho and all others, let us die like warriors. We are the sons of Africa. Raise your war cries my brothers, for though they made us leave our assegais back in the kraals, our voices are left with our bodies..." The Johannesburg based heritage architects Brendan Hart and Yasmin Mayet , who have been working on the redesign and restoration of the Mendi memorial in the Avalon Cemetery in Soweto will be in conversation with Kathy Munro about their work, memorial architecture and the challenges of meaningfully remembering the loss of the SS Mendi a century later. The Foundation commemorates the men of the SS Mendi at an event (a lecture and a docudrama film) on 26th November at 2.00 pm at Northwards . We shall tell you all about the forthcoming event. RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY,22nd NOVEMBER BETWEEN 10h45 AND 11h15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM or DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
One of South Africa’s National Treasures, the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir, will be bringing the spirit of Christmas to Johannesburg. You need not travel to the Berg, Our singing ambassadors will be visiting our city. Founded in 1967 the Choir has an intentional reputation. Here is a treat for Johannesburg citizens on 1st December at the College at 7 pm. The event is a fundraiser for the Bursary fund of the Holy Family College Last year this event was most successful with approximately 900 people attending. Kathy Munro converses with Mark Potterton of the College about the Choir, the forthcoming concert, why the association with the College, Christmas choral traditions, the history of the Holy Family College and why the familiar building on Oxford Road has a blue Plaque. Mark will also be able to tell us about the most recent developments in school education. HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2016 BETWEEN 10h45 and 11h15 On MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS.
To celebrate our City’s 130th anniversary a few of our guides have been researching our fascinating history. Few cities can claim as varied and tumultuous a history in this relatively short period and the Foundation has arranged a never to be repeated retrospective of the thirteen decades, encompassing architecture, social history and a glimpse into the future. They will b e leading a tour this Saturday, encompassing the mining camp, the British Colonial city, the 1930’s metropolis and post-war modernism, and, of course, the burgeoning newer areas.
We hope to cover as much of the social history as well, so be sure to tune in as Den Adams chats to Brian McKechnie on:
HERITAGE TODAY on RADIO TODAY on TUESDAY 8 NOVEMBER 2016 BETWEEN
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Lindfield House is a unique heritage house museum encapsulating life as it was lived in a comfortable Johannesburg home circa 1895 to 1905. Located in the heart of Auckand Park Lindfield House has recently been recognized with a blue plaque . It is a private museum of great charm. Each room (and there are 18 of them) is furnished in period style. The house is filled with treasures collected by the Love family over several generations. Each item whether an ice chest in the kitchen, the dolls house in the children's suite, or the piano on the drawing room has a functional purpose as well as illustrative of a lifestyle of a bygone era, Here one can study the applied arts and craftsmanship the turn of the 20th century .
Katherine Love is the owner of this extraordinary house museum and is an authority on Victorian and Edwardian antiques, but it's Katherine's understanding of context that makes each item come alive.
Katherine Love joins Kathy Munro of JHF in conversation about Lindfield house. We shall discuss the award of the blue plaque and the opportunities for visiting the house to enjoy tea on the varandah. HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
Johannesburg Heritage Foundation is known for the excellence of its Heritage tours. On Saturday 29th October, 2016, heritage guide, Dave Gurney and architecture professor, Prof Paul Kotze lead a walking tour of the suburb of Brixton.
The history of the suburb goes back to 1902. Just after the Boer War, Auret Pritchard surveyed the suburb for the Auckland Park Real estate company. 500 small stands were auctioned in 1903 for residential development . The idea was to build small residential, single family dwellings (described as cottages, villas and other residences) for solid working class artisans and trades people. Brixton had the advantage of its proximity to the city, and tram transport, but with panoramic view stands ("reaching far away to the Magaliesberg Mountains").
It was a new suburb close to the centre but also far away in the country, the stands were auctioned without reserve with generous financial loans available. Brixton took its name from London and many of the street names reflect those English links : Fulham, Putney, Esher, Kew, Isleworth, Chiswick, Mortlake. It was to be a little England on the Highveld.
Dave will join Kathy Munro to discuss the history of Brixton and more recent densification and transformation as a suburb with a future within the Corridors of Freedom. You will learn about the architecture and personalities of the suburb.
RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY, 25th OCTOBER BETWEEN 10h45 AND 11h15
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When is heritage not heritage? When it is less than 20 years old. That was the dictum of the Blue Plaque organisation in London which they have recently ignored using a blue plaque to extol the achievements of a footballer who is still playing. But in Johannesburg where blue plaques have traditionally commemorated people who are dead or buildings constructed at least 60 years ago dare we break that rule and award a blue plaque to a building which is only 20 years old? What criteria will we apply? To discuss this topic Flo Bird has invited Professor Kathy Munro, Honorary Professor in the Department of Architecture at Wits, Marcus Holmes an Architect with long experience of the assessment committees of the Institute Architects adjudicating Awards of Merit to very new buildings, and William Gaul a member of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation’s Blue Plaques Committee who chairs the Joint Plans Committee and has served on the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority so is familiar with the many pitfalls the designation “heritage” might convey. RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY, 18th OCTOBER BETWEEN 10h45 AND 11h15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM or DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
The South African Antique Dealers Association is hosting their annual antiques fair at the Wanderers Club , Johannesburg on the weekend of the 27th to 29th October . Antiques of all types , whether an unusual book , a map of early Johannesburg , a grandfather clock , an item of handcrafted furniture , of a beautiful necklace are all items inherited from the past . Antiques are a different aspect of heritage. Paul explains why a stereoscope with 3 D views from the Boer War was a forerunner of computer generated virtual reality. James shares the excitement of the unearthing of the earliest known Zulu language printed pamphlet. Antiques have age on their side and are often rare and collectable. Paul Mrkusic , Chairman of the SAADA and James Findlay , cartographic specialist , join Kathy Munro of Johannesburg Heritage Foundation in a lively conversation about antiques , their definition , their range , the investment potential of antiques and why antiques are part of a living heritage . Are fairs a good place to view and buy antiques? The answer is a resounding yes, the fair is an exhibition of choice items all under one roof, brought to lovers of antiques by 50 reputable dealers
Join Kathy, Paul and James for a prelude and taste of what the October Antiques fair offers.
HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
Johannesburg is the place to be in the art world at the moment. The Battiss Exhibition at the Wits Art Museum in Braamfontein (and the Matisse exhibition at the Standard Bank Gallery) are magic magnets exhibitions that delight, educate, thrill and amaze. Both exhibitions are important. Today we concentrate on the Battiss exhibition. Walter Battiss has become a well-known and collectable artist in South Africa, and here is the opportunity to see why the many lives of Walter Battiss are a celebration of life, love and freedom. The Battiss exhibition is curated by Warren Siebrits and the splendid book in limited edition of 1500 copies is a publishing achievement of note.
Kathy Munro interviews Jack Ginsberg the man behind the most significant Walter Battiss collection in South Africa and the father of this exhibition. Jack is the founder of the Ampersand foundation, and is a patron and benefactor to the arts / art collecting, arts education and scholarship in South Africa. Jack built his Battiss collection over 35 years and has arrived at the decision to find a permanent home for the Battiss collection at the Wits Art Museum. This is generosity to the country is beyond riches and ensure preservation and celebration of a great artist for generations to come. Kathy and Jack discuss the background to the collection and the exhibition, the life, times and art of Walter Battiss. Learn all about Fook Island and how this conceptual art took on a life of its own.
The collection, together with the book and the Walter Battiss exhibition is an extraordinary heritage. This is a landmark moment. The exhibition is in effect a retrospective of over 700 Battis’ works books and objects made by the artist Walter Battiss from his earliest years until his death.
Join us to learn about Walter Battiss and remember to see the Battiss exhibition at Wits before it closes on 9th October. In fact you are invited to join a special JHF tour of the Walter Battiss on Sunday 9th October at 10 am. Details from Eira Bond
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HE JOHANNESBURG HERITAGE FOUNDATION HERITAGE WEEKEND CELEBRATIONS
Did you know the first major feature film to depict Johannesburg was released in 1949 and was called ‘African Jim’ or ‘Jim Comes to Joburg’? Did you know that as late as 1948 there was still doubt about the continued existence of Johannesburg as a city?
This week's heritage show on Radio Today explores some of the unusual facts of Johannesburg's history you have not heard before as we take you through our diverse programme of events for Heritage weekend, 24th and 25th September.
Did you know one of Johannesburg's only gold statues tops the spire at the Church of the Latter Day Saints? Did you know that Johannesburg is celebrating its 130th birthday in 2016?
Join Alexandra Parker as she reveals all of these facts that form part of Johannesburg's heritage and part of this week's insert on Radio Today Heritage.
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Parts of central Johannesburg look like a bomb site. Windows have been wrenched out, brass plates removed from once grand entrance doors, pink paint splodged across others, evidence of fire damage and yet there is no sign that the owners care that these are heritage buildings with very fine architectural features.
Many are owned by the National Department of Public Works such as the Marshall Street Police Barracks, the Drill Hall and Spoorbondkas. Some are owned by the Gauteng Province where work started and then buildings were abandoned, stripped of their brass window frames and Eduardo Villa panels. Even the City of Johannesburg is guilty of simply walking away from the problems of restoration. The Rissik Street Post Office remain the most shaming example of this, but the very fine Central Johannesburg Fire Station is another shameful example of neglect.
Several private property owners have a much better record. They not only restore the buildings, but put them to good use as can be seen in the many offices converted to residential apartments. But others seem determined to achieve demolition by decay.
Is it worth hanging on to these old buildings or should the owners be allowed to demolish them? Flo Bird and Clive Chipkin, doyenne of architectural historians,
Endeavour to confront the issue. HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
At the start of Heritage month Flo Bird asks the question “How do matters stand with Johannesburg’s heritage now?’ The experts who’ll be answering this are Judith Muindisi and Monika Läuferts le Roux, cultural heritage consultants with TSICA who have completed many heritage reports, heritage impact assessments and conservation management plans all over the City. Their book on the Johannesburg Gasworks is in its own way a model of conservation of fine drawings, lovely photographs and important memories. Their range has been extended even further since commissioned to survey and assess heritage in areas affected by the Corridors of Freedom.
They will be joined by Brian McKechnie, architect, chairman of the heritage committee of the Gauteng Institute for Architecture and member of the Provincial Heritage Resources Authority of Gauteng. Brian deals with the rock face, the applications for alteration and demolition of structures which are protected by the National Heritage Resources Act. He sits on the committee which wields the axe – a responsibility he dare not shirk as he is the only architect on the Built Environment committee. He has an intimate knowledge of the city centre and its many fine buildings, but as Chairman of the Anstey’s Body Corporate he is also well aware of the pressures on owners of these marvellous old buildings when faced with the need to restore, change or demolish.
All three experts have to be realistic while at the same time cherishing the City’s heritage. Is the system working? Is the legislation adequate and, most importantly, are the authorities both City and Gauteng Province dedicating the necessary resources to protect our heritage?
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Prynnsberg is one of those secret surprising places in South Africa. It is an estate with some magnificent sandstone buildings located in the Eastern Free State, near Clocholan. It’s a magical late Victorian country mansion that belonged to the Newberry family. Charles Newberr, an Englishman, made his fortune in diamond mining and went on to marry a local girl, purchase farmland and created a country estate in grand style. He brought up his family here and the estate passed through the generations, through a legal device of entail. There is an extraordinary story here about a family, landownership and property and what it means today.
Prynnsberg is a magical place that takes you back to perhaps 120 years ago to a lifestyle of Free State farming , country living and large families who enjoyed riding , hunting , polo and croquet on the lawns . Rare blooms were grown in the conservatory and the ladies of the family became botanical artists. What is remarkable is the survival of this estate and in a more egalitarian age it's now a country retreat. I have a precious memory of hearing a piper playing and thrilling us. "Scotland the Brave" echoed from the sandstone caves above the farmland bordering Lesotho. This is a place to go glamorous camping or "glamping ". Rick and Sue Melvill are the owners of Prynnsberg who have set out to restore and bring Prynnsberg back to its glory days
Mike Rayne , an architect with an interest in heritage , joins Kathy Munro to talk about Prynnsberg and his firm's work in restoring the mansion and the challenge of creating state of the art modern accommodation. His firm's sensitivity to the unique heritage context and with an architectural approach that restores, preserves and protects this gracious home , while envisioning a boutique hotel , is central to explaining how heritage preservation can make grand places live again. Prynnsberg is a mere 4 hours from Johannesburg and if you are keen on South Africa's architectural legacy it is one of those must visit places. HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
Jan Christian Smuts, 1870-1950, was once one of South Africa’s most celebrated leaders. He was admired, criticised, and stirred controversy even in his own life time, but nevertheless he was a man who put South Africa on to the world stage. Smuts and his United Party were defeated in the 1948 election and Malan and the National Party came to power and with this change in circumstances, came the adoption of grand apartheid. Smuts died in 1950 and his legacy while noted , all too quickly passed into distant history and today Smuts is regarded rather disparagingly and dismissively by some, as a colonial leader. The nuances in political positioning have quickly been forgotten.
Following the rainbow revolution of Mandela and the ANC there has been little mention of Smuts. As time passes, there has been a recent revival of interest in Smuts and his legacy. New comparisons are now being probed between recent leaders and their accomplishments and Smuts. Gail Nattrass, historian and author of a book on Smuts and the Boer War, meets Kathy Munro of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation to tease out some of these comparisons and to converse about the legacy of Smuts, his relevance today and the challenge of changing historical interpretations. Gail’s extensive research leads her to believe that Smuts should still be celebrated because within the context of his time, he had values relevant for all time: a work ethic second to none, an abhorrence of cronyism and corruption, and a belief in the basic good in all people. Smuts too was a man who changed his loyalties and political positioning in the interest of forging a South African identity. Of course there were political flaws, racial blind spots and human frailties. But In a society which needs role models perhaps more than ever at this time, we can still learn much from Smuts.
Aspects of the career and complex character of this brilliant but enigmatic man, his arrogance as well as his humility, his lack of interest in material things, and his often strange liaisons and relationships with both men and women, will be discussed. This conversation is a prelude to the lecture Gail will be delivering In Johannesburg for DARTS later in August, a treat not to be missed as Gail’s lecture will include pictures and video clips..
On RADIO TODAY on Medium Wave channel 1485 or DSTV audio channel 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za and on 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
Born in 1923 in Excelsior in the Eastern Free State Bea’s father, Kenneth Johnson, had originally served under Baden Powell during the Anglo Boer War and spent most of his time riding between the Magaliesberg Fort and Krugersdorp – “For two years I never slept on a bed”, he quoted. He returned to England after the War. Lord Milner had sponsored a settlement scheme to develop an area in the Orange Free State between Thaba Nchu and Wepener, which had been the scene of wars between the Free State farmers and the Basuthos. He also encouraged the Duke of Westminister to introduce a similar scheme around Tweespruit and the Excelsior station and he bought about ten thousand morgen on which he established his own home, commissioning Herbert Baker as builder, and also built 22 other farmhouses which the Duke offered to some of the farmers in his own estates in England. Bea’s father, Kenneth, was one of these farmers and from small beginnings the family grew. Eventually his brother, Bernard, emigrated to South Africa, took over his farm and Kenneth bought Farm Waterland, where his family grew, waterfoul and flamingos abounded in the wetlands, and I think the farm has now been home to about five generations of Johnsons! HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15 ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869 RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES. RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
Vanessa Cooke, the actress, has been involved with The Market Theatre since its founding in 1976 and appeared in its very first production The Seagull which was Upstairs. Then came Marat / Sade which stirred Johannesburg from its comfort zone of drawing room farces. The wake-up call was heard by Flo Bird who will be reminiscing with Vanessa about the Market Theatre’s fight against Apartheid which gained international recognition and the scrutiny of the Security Police.
One marvellous production –a Christmas pantomime endangered life and limb, but many great plays which mirrored the South African position were performed there. Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are dead, and Mother Courage were two example. Then came Dario Fo’s The Accidental death of an Anarchist which was horribly close to home.
Local writers and dramatists were given exposure, particularly Athol Fugard and in later years Paul Slabolepsy. Some plays were lyrical “Green and Golden the childhood memories of Dylan Thomas; some were completely hilarious like Tom Stoppard’s Travesties and others so chilling you left the theatre in silence. The Market Theatre repeatedly took aim at the conscience of South Africans and frequently hit the target.
Vanessa herself ran the Market Theatre Laboratory developing young actors while continuing herself to perform. A Great Theatre using a wonderful old building – the Indian Fruit market - and keeping Newtown alive for many, many years.
Tune in to -
HERITAGE TODAY ON RADIO TODAY ON TUESDAY 19th JULY BETWEEN 10H45 AND 11H15
ON MEDIUM WAVE CHANNEL 1485 AM OR DSTV AUDIO CHANNEL 869
RADIO TODAY ALSO STREAMS ON ITS WEBSITE www.1485.org.za AND ON 1485 mobi
RADIO TODAY! THE STATION THAT CARES.
RADIO TODAY! THE RADIO THAT DELIVERS
THE BATTLE OF DELVILLE WOOD – ONE HUNDRED YEARS AGO.
Hamish Patterson, from the Military History Museum, is our guest and chats to Den Adams about the battles, survivors, and the subsequent events which resulted in the establishment of a Museum and National War Memorial at Delville Wood.
On Friday 14 July 1916 the 1st SAI Batallion reinforces the 26 and 27 Brigades to attack Longueval, France. The Battle of the Somme had begun on 1 July and the British troops suffered serious casualties. Two weeks later an attack was made on Longueval with the 9th (Scottish) Division, also suffering serious casualties and the next day the Battle of Delville Wood began. It was to occupy almost one week and it was only on the 20th July when Col Frank Thackeray, two wounded officers and 140 exhausted men were relieved. Almost eighty percent of the men who had left South Africa were no longer in the field.