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McGREGOR MUSEUM STAFF • April 2003 - March 2004
ADMINISTRATION Director C Fortune MA Assistant Director L Jacobson BA (Hons)Administrative Officer RR Green B Comm, Dip AccAdministrative Clerks E Mashilo (JSTC), C Petersen, A GeweerPersonnel Officer F Msuthu Driver/Messenger S Sothoane Receptionist N MolotoTransport Officer Y Alexander
Museum Caretakers/Assistants Magersfontein R Richards, S Richards, E Richards, E v Schalkwyk, C van SchalkwykSanatorium F Higgo Chapel Street K Fredericks Duggan-Cronin Gallery D v Schalkwyk Aviation Z MoshounyaneRelief JK van BlerkCleaners M Katz, G Matsoele, E Moshounyane, J Tyopo, D Pretorius, J. Katz
NATURAL AND HUMAN SCIENCESResearch and CuratorialArchaeology D Morris MA, K van Ryneveld MScBotany T Anderson BSc (Hons)History V Allen B Bibl MA PSAILISCultural History B Carlstein BA H Dip Lib Living History S Mngqolo Museum and Heritage Studies DipMilitary History S Swanepoel B.Bibl; BA (Hons); Post Grad Dip Archival StudiesSocial Anthropology L Mogami BA (Hons)Photographs R Hart BA (Hons), N Msuthu Zoology PC Anderson Ph DCollection ManagementArchaeology V Dinku Museum & Heritage Studies CertSocial Anthropology M Seetelo BA Social SciencesTaxidermy J OliphantZoology B Wilson ND; B Tech; BABotany A van Heerden ND Nat Cons
COMMUNICATION & PUBLIC SERVICEDesktop Publishing A Coetzee NHD (Fine Art)Library M Fouche BA Dip Lib HEDEducation (Part-time) S Erasmus BSc (Hons) STD
TECHNICAL SERVICESIT Officer A Coetzee NHD (Fine Art)Display Officer/Artist HC Delport ND (Fine Art) (to 2004) Museum Assistant, Art M LodewykWorkshop & MaintenanceArtisans IP Swarts, A AbdolAssistants J Loeto, G van Schalkwyk S Maarman (Cultural History) Senior Foreman Buildings OT Moncho Groundsperson JA GibbsHead Gardener J RietGardeners J Davids, L Ntoni, W Tali, J van Schalkwyk, P van Schalkwyk
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1. CHAIRMAN’S REPORT 4
2. DIRECTOR’S REPORT 5
3. REPORT OF THE ASSISTANT DIRECTOR 7
4. CULTURAL HISTORY DEPARTMENT 8
5. BOTANY 10
6. PHOTOGRAPHIC DEPARTMENT 12
7. CONFLICT HISTORY DEPARTMENT 14
8. DESKTOP PUBLISHING 15
9. DISPLAYS: ART DEPARTMENT 16
10. ZOOLOGY 18
11. LIVING HISTORY DEPARTMENT 20
12. LIBRARY 21
13. ARCHAEOLOGY 22
14. EDUCATION SERVICES 24
15. ARCHIVES 26
16. SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGY 28
17. MAINTENANCE & WORKSHOP 30
18. RESEARCH ASSOCIATE 31
19. FINANCIAL REPORT 32 20. PUBLICATIONS BY STAFF AND RESEARCH ASSOCIATES 34
21. CONFERENCES, WORKSHOPS AND COURSES 37
22. DONORS AND ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 38
Published by the / Gepubliseer deur dieMcGREGOR MUSEUM, PO Box 316, Kimberley 8300
Printed by/Gedruk deur SWIFTPRINT - Tel. (053)8392900
CONTENTS
McGREGOR MUSEUM STAFF • April 2003 - March 2004
ADMINISTRATION Director C Fortune MA Assistant Director L Jacobson BA (Hons)Administrative Officer RR Green B Comm, Dip AccAdministrative Clerks E Mashilo (JSTC), C Petersen, A GeweerPersonnel Officer F Msuthu Driver/Messenger S Sothoane Receptionist N MolotoTransport Officer Y Alexander
Museum Caretakers/Assistants Magersfontein R Richards, S Richards, E Richards, E v Schalkwyk, C van SchalkwykSanatorium F Higgo Chapel Street K Fredericks Duggan-Cronin Gallery D v Schalkwyk Aviation Z MoshounyaneRelief JK van BlerkCleaners M Katz, G Matsoele, E Moshounyane, J Tyopo, D Pretorius, J. Katz
NATURAL AND HUMAN SCIENCESResearch and CuratorialArchaeology D Morris MA, K van Ryneveld MScBotany T Anderson BSc (Hons)History V Allen B Bibl MA PSAILISCultural History B Carlstein BA H Dip Lib Living History S Mngqolo Museum and Heritage Studies DipMilitary History S Swanepoel B.Bibl; BA (Hons); Post Grad Dip Archival StudiesSocial Anthropology L Mogami BA (Hons)Photographs R Hart BA (Hons), N Msuthu Zoology PC Anderson Ph DCollection ManagementArchaeology V Dinku Museum & Heritage Studies CertSocial Anthropology M Seetelo BA Social SciencesTaxidermy J OliphantZoology B Wilson ND; B Tech; BABotany A van Heerden ND Nat Cons
COMMUNICATION & PUBLIC SERVICEDesktop Publishing A Coetzee NHD (Fine Art)Library M Fouche BA Dip Lib HEDEducation (Part-time) S Erasmus BSc (Hons) STD
TECHNICAL SERVICESIT Officer A Coetzee NHD (Fine Art)Display Officer/Artist HC Delport ND (Fine Art) (to 2004) Museum Assistant, Art M LodewykWorkshop & MaintenanceArtisans IP Swarts, A AbdolAssistants J Loeto, G van Schalkwyk S Maarman (Cultural History) Senior Foreman Buildings OT Moncho Groundsperson JA GibbsHead Gardener J RietGardeners J Davids, L Ntoni, W Tali, J van Schalkwyk, P van Schalkwyk
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With respect to Batho Pele principles in action -
"It is certain that the focus of the museum is well in keeping with the new South Africa."
"Due to its inovative approach, the McGregor Museum has become an example for other museums countrywide."
- The Premier's Service Excellence Awards 2003Best Practices Report
"Well done, keep up the excellent work."Premier Manne Dipico
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The McGregor Museum was established in 1907, for the citizens of Kimberley. Expanding in scope and function beyond the dreams of its founders, it is today the principal museum in the Northern Cape Province. For further information, consult the museum’s website, www.museumsnc.co.za
SERVICE STANDARDSThe McGregor Museum strives to fulfill the principles of consultation, access, courtesy, communication, transparency, addressing problems by improving ser-vice, providing best value with innovative team effort, and making a difference in the lives of the people we serve.
VISIEOm ons verlede en hede te ken en te
bewaar vir die toekoms
DOELSTELLINGDie missie van die McGregor Museum
is, deur voortreflike diens, die navorsing, bewaring en bewusmaking van die kulturele-
en biodiversiteit van die Noord-Kaap.
MAIKANOMaikaelelo a Museum wa McGregor ke go batlisisa, go shomarela, ga mmogo le go
tsibosa kitso ya tlhago le histori ya setso ga mmogo le pharologano ya
Kapa Bokone ka tlhagisho ya maeomo a kwa godimo.
PONELELOPELEGo itse le go shomarela tsa maloba, le tsa
segompijeno go isa bokamosong.
MISSIONThe mission of the McGregor Museum is to research and conserve the natural and cultural history and diversity of the
Northern Cape, and promote an awareness thereof through service excellence.
VISIONTo know and conserve our past and present
for the future.
CONTACT DETAILSMuseum Director: Mr Colin Fortune [email protected] address: Atlas Street, Kimberley.Postal Address: P.O. Box 316, Kimberley 8300.Tel 053-8392700Fax 053-8421433.
UMBONOKukwazi nokulondoloza okudlulileyo nokwangoku kusenzelwa ikamva.
UMNQWENOI-McGregor Museum izimisele
ukuphanda nokulondoloza indalo nembali kunye nobubanzi boMntla Koloni,
nokunyasa ulwazi ngomsebenzi obalaseleyo.
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CHAIRMAN’S REPORT For the period 1 April 2003 - 31March 2004
BOARD MEMBERSMr D. Allen
R. BruceMr Z. Debedu (Chairman)
Dr R. Liversidge (died Sep 2003)Mr M. Manyungwana
The Rev Maropong (died March 2004)Mrs S. Oppenheimer
Mr B. RoodtMs M. van de MolenMrs F. van Niekerk
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The year under review, like so many in the past, has not been an easy one for the Board of Trustees and staff of the McGregor Museum. Financial constraints that impact on service delivery and the maintenance of buildings is still a major concern to the Board. The frugal financial policies implemented in past financial years are paying dividends and in certain areas this is clearly noticeable. A specific area is the purchase of new vehicles to gradually replace our fleet of un-roadworthy vehicles.
Our involvement with the excavation of human remains, unearthed by the Sol Plaatje Municipality during a development project, has given us the opportunity to investigate archaeologically and historically aspects of African life in the pioneer period of Kimberley’s history. The results of the research done will bring into focus a history that has been neglected for decades. The consolidation of the anthropology collection in one storage facility has now been achieved. This was always a neglected collection and is now receiving attention it deserves. Funding for the restoration and digitisation of the Duggan-Cronin Collection has been sourced and the nitrate negatives are now housed under suitable conditions.
As Chairperson I have been ably supported by the Board of Trustees and the staff of the museum. Through our concerted efforts the museum was nominated as one of ten finalists in the Premier’s Excellence Award; an achievement we can all be proud and this proves that we are trying our utmost to adhere to the Batho Pele Principles.
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An achievement that we can be proud of was to be nominated as a runner-up for the Premier’s Excellence Awards. This was no mean achievement as we were competing against better resourced departments. We would not have achieved this if it was not for the hard work and diligence of the staff and the Board of Trustees.
The Duggan-Cronin Collection remains a priority and in this financial year the highly specialised refrigerated container was officially handed over to the museum by Mrs Jennifer Oppenheimer. The Department of Arts and Culture generously donated an amount of R1 million for the conservation and digitisation of the Collection.
The anthropology collection has eventually been moved into one storage area from the various buildings where it was previously housed. This has improved curation, security and accessibility tremendously.
Our vastly diverse natural and cultural heritage is attracting foreign researchers to the Province. This has resulted in some exciting collaborative projects, creating opportunities for our researchers as well as training and job opportunities for unemployed community members. We have had researchers from the USA, UK, Australia, Sweden, Israel, France, Canada and Germany visiting the museum.
The museum is collaborating with the Sol Plaatje Municipality through researching the history of Galeshewe, Greater No. 2 and the exhumation of human remains disturbed while they were excavating a storm-water trench.
Provincially professional assistance was rendered to the Alexander Bay, Vaalputs and Eksteenfontein Museums. Our role as a flagship museum for the Northern Cape is becoming more and more obvious as municipal museums are calling on us to assist with various museological queries and for training.
Ms Felicity Msuthu was nominated as staff member of the year for 2003. This was the second year that the award was made and as a staff we thank her for the supportive role she plays. We would not have been able to achieve the above and all that is reported in the pages that follow, if we did not have the dedicated and unwavering support of the entire staff and Board of Trustees.
The challenges faced by museums are at times quite daunting, especially when considering staffing and financial restrictions. These conditions are not unique to our institution, but are of a universal nature. The difference is that we have realised
this and have resolutely tackled the problem and slowly we are starting to attain goals we have set ourselves.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT For the period 1 April 2003 - 31 March 2004
Visit of MG Club to the Museum, 2003. The Museum staff admiring one of the vehicles are Joyce Katz. Albert Abdol,
Nthabiseng Moloto and Gilbert van Schalkwyk.
Opening of the 10 Years of Democracy Exhibition at the Sanatorium, 18 May 2004. Mr C. Fortune, Mr K. Jezi, Mr Z. Debedu Chairman of the Museum Board of Trustees, Mr S. Mngqolo and Mr N. Galeka raise their glasses to South
Africa.
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The special cake cut at the opening of the 10 Years of Democracy Exhibition.
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VIRTUAL VISITORS TO THE MCGREGOR MUSEUM’S WEBSITEwww.museumsnc.co.za
Graph of visiting numbers from April 2003 to May 2004
VISITORS / BESOEKERS / BAETI: McGREGOR MUSEUM 2003/2004
White Black Total Percent
TOTAL Adults Children Adults Children Adults Children Black visitors
2003/2004
Sanatorium 10684 5014 1572 620 3478 5634 5050 38.4
Chapel Str 5077 743 621 1186 2527 1929 3148 73.1
Duggan-Cronin 584 328 105 39 112 367 217 25.9
Aviation 348 311 36 1 0 312 36 0.3
Magersfontein 6572
Wonderwerk Cave 3714
TOTAL 03/04 26979
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** From the Visitors Book
Most of the year was taken up with routine matters and some research. A number of conferences were attended at which papers were read. A list of these will be found under the relevant sections. I was also invited to be a keynote speaker at the South African geology students annual Geocongress held at the University of the Free State. A new telephone monitoring system was introduced. The use of pin numbers has simplified the monitoring of telephone expenses. All staff members received pin numbers on the understanding that private phone calls had to be repaid. As pin numbers were discontinued for those members who did not pay up, substantial savings are being made.
During November, the Museum buildings (Sanatorium, Rudd House and Dunluce) were rented by a German film company for the making of a film loosely based on the life of the well-known geologist Hans Merensky. I spent most nights together with Mr K. Fredericks, the Chapel Street curator, baby-sitting the crew to make sure that no damage occurred to any of the properties during the filming.
A s s i s t a n t D i r e c t o rA s s i s t a n t D i r e c t o rA s s i s t a n t D i r e c t o r
L Jacobson
Film crew in the garden of ‘Dunluce’, November 2003. The house was used as a set for the fi lm ‘Platinum’.
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Apart from the normal care and conservation of the various collections this department was involved in many projects ranging from assisting regional museums to co-ordinating a large international film production. It has been an exciting
and challenging year for both the curator and her assistant Mrs S Maarman.
Once again the Cultural History collections were enriched by unusual donations received throughout the period under review. These included a large box of glass flower vases which originally belonged to John Orr and were donated by him to the Kimberley Horticultural Society. Last year the Society closed its doors and the vases were given to the museum. Other interesting items received by the department include an electronic address machine which had been used by the Hadison Park Pharmacy as well as radio ham equipment donated by a local enthusiast.
Not only did the department acquire many objects via donations but it purchased an item which proved to be quite a talking point at the museum. The piece is called a Yashiba Advertising Doll which was used to promote the camera in a marketing campaign. It has a bobbing head and is dressed in a white t - shirt, blue shorts and red outsize shoes. Truly an outrageous but intriguing addition to the collection.
Although the Museum is reluctant to accept anything on a long loan basis an exception was made when the curator was approached by the chairman / president of the First Church of Christian Scientists, Mr George Rindel. After the church closed its doors as the congregation had dwindled to a few members the premises were sold to a commercial firm. This move left the few remaining parishioners with a problem of where to store their 12 Rhodesian Teak pews and podium. Mr Rindel contacted Mrs B Carlstein and after discussing the situation with the Museum Director it was decided to accept the pews and podium on a 15 year loan. At the end of this period they would become part of the Cultural History collection if they have not been reclaimed by the church. Once all the formalities had been concluded the pews and podium were brought to the Museum and are at present displayed in the Hall of Religions.
The curator was involved in assisting two regional museums; these being the Kalahari - Oranje Museum at Upington and a private museum at Vaalputs near Springbok. In the case of the former the curator together with Mr C Fortune and three other staff members spent three days checking and cleaning the museum and its surroundings. In addition Mrs Carlstein gave the resident curator and her assistant some tips in the caring and conservation of their collections. The Kimberley team left Upington feeling that in some small measure they had helped the local museum staff members with their task of caring for the museum and its collections.
Unfortunately this was not the case at Vaalputs. The museum consisted of a two - roomed Trek Boer house
which had been lovingly furnished with items donated by the local community. In addition other objects such as an old caravan, car and wagon were standing outside exposed to the elements and deteriorating due to the lack of care and attention. When the owners of Vaalputs approached the McGregor Museum for advice and assistance it was decided to relocate the objects displayed in the Trek Boer house to a more tourist friendly place. Mr C Fortune, the curator and two other staff members spent four days at Vaalputs cleaning and packing the items to be stored until a new venue is found for them. Hopefully it will not be too long before these objects so carefully collected will be displayed once more for all to appreciate.
In addition to many other tasks the curator was persuaded to deliver a talk on two different occasions, these being the Department of Education's History Teachers Workshop and the Cultures and Vultures Week. The Museum was requested to organize a workshop to show the history teachers ways in which they could use the various departments and displays of the museum to assist them in bringing history alive. The curator's talk revolved around the objects in the Cultural History collections which reflected the Colonial era and the way they could be used in the class room to illustrate how people lived.
View of the caravan, car and covered wagon at Vaalputs Museum
C u l t u r a l H i s t o r yC u l t u r a l H i s t o r yD e p a r t m e n tD e p a r t m e n t
C u l t u r a l H i s t o r yD e p a r t m e n t
Curator: Mrs A.B. Carlstein Assistant: Mrs S. MaarmanCurator: Mrs A.B. Carlstein Assistant: Mrs S. MaarmanC4 urator: Mrs A.B. Carlstein Assistant: Mrs S. Maarman
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" Excellent Display and History Lesson" Bill Diekie, Southampton, England29/3/03
The Cultures and Vultures Week which took place in November was the brain child of Mr Steve Lunderstedt. He visualised it as a means to encourage tourists to visit Kimberley and approached the Historical Society to organize a day of talks on interesting topics. The curator was asked to give a talk on a subject of her choice and after much thought Mrs Carlstein decided to base it on the evolution of fashion in South Africa. Despite many hours of researching and soul searching the talk was finally written, delivered and according to reports well received much to the curator's relief.
One of the highlights of the year was the department's involvement with the filming of 'Platinum' by Philo Films in collaboration with a German film company. It depicted the life and times of Hans Merensky a well - known German geologist, and Philo Films needed to use Rudd House, Dunluce and the Sanatorium as locations. The curator became involved purely by chance when she was requested to show a location scout around the historic houses. After that initial meeting events snowballed and Mrs Carlstein became more and more part of the planning and finalizing of the locations. Even items such as prams, a croquet set and tables and chairs were borrowed for props. It was a
very busy but exciting time for both the curator and her assistant and gave them both a new insight into the world of film making. Mrs Carlstein has now been designated as the 'Museum's film liaison officer'.
Even though the front of Dunluce was renovated (thanks to the generosity of Philo Films) the restoration of the two historic houses remains an insurmountable problem. Both houses are in dire need of restoration particularly Rudd House. As the interior of these historic houses are the responsibility of the curator of the Cultural History department, Mrs Carlstein is very concerned about the rapid deterioration of both dwellings. Hopefully there is a kind benefactor out there who will give the Museum the much - needed funds to at least repair some of the damage caused by the ravages of time.
Once again the curator wishes to thank her assistant Mrs S Maarman for all her support during the past year. Without her help Mrs Carlstein would not be able to undertake all the tasks expected of her. Both the curator and Mrs Maarman look forward to the challenges of the forth - coming year and they will tackle them with the same efficiency as always.
Dunluce under renovation.
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Study and conservation: botanical assessments
Without fundraising, the botany section would not be able to deliver 90% of the services it provides, or move forward through increasing the collection and studying the ecology of the Northern Cape flora. One way to ensure that funds are raised is to undertake botanical surveys, as well as specialist studies for Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs). These studies contribute towards sustainable rural development and the conservation of our natural heritage as they form a vital part of natural resource management. They also ensure that developers comply with the relevant environmental legislation, such as the National Environmental Management Act (No. 107 of 1998). This is necessary because everyone has the right to an environment that is not harmful to his or her health or well-being, and the State must respect, protect, promote and fulfil the social, economic and environmental rights of everyone and strive to meet the basic needs of previously disadvantaged communities.
Seven botanical studies were undertaken over the past year and scientific reports were produced (see publications list). Of these, the most time consuming were the SEAs for the Kgalagadi District Municipality and the four municipalities within this district. SEAs were necessary because of a lack of a proper environmental assessment and integrated environmental plan in the Integrated Development Plans of these municipalities. A SEA includes an assessment of the vegetation as part of the biophysical environment, and focuses on the opportunities and constraints of the environ-ment on development.
Botanical surveys also contribute to our database of infor-mation and a better understanding of the diversity of the flora of the Northern Cape. However, if it were not necessary to continually raise funds through botanical surveys, more time could be spent on other projects focussed on achiev-ing specific objectives.
Richard Liversidge Memorial Garden
A very special project I was privileged to plan and orga-nise was the establishment of a memorial garden at the museum. The garden is in honour of Dr Richard Liversidge, Director of the McGregor Museum from 1966 to 1986, who moved on to greener, bird-filled pastures when he passed away in September 2003. Richard Liversidge made a great contribution to the conservation of the natural and cultural heritage of our province, and a memorial garden filled with the trees and birds he so dearly loved is a fitting tribute to such a great man. He was a great friend and mentor and his frequent visits and good advice will be sorely missed. An opening ceremony was held in March 2004 and five trees were planted in the memorial garden, the first one by Vivienne Liversidge.
Mr Koning Scholtz (Snr), a former chairperson of the Mc-Gregor Museum Board of Trustees who worked with Rich-ard, paid a beautiful tribute to him during the ceremony. Many thanks to the sponsors, namely Jill Adams, the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa, Northern Cape Region, the Historical Society of Kimberley and the Northern Cape, and Supermix (Pty) Ltd. for covering all the expenses, and to my colleagues who assisted in a variety of ways.
Promoting an appreciation: information communication and training
Talks on natural history were presented to learners of all ages as well as adults. These talks included, amongst oth-ers, teaching the girl guides about trees and shrubs, and a walk along the Vaal River to learn more about the flora of our area for the Friends of the Museum. I presented a talk on ‘cures from the plant world’ during the Cultures and Vultures week held in Kimberley during November 2003.
E-mail requests for information on plants are constantly streaming in, as this medium has made it easier to communicate with many people at once and much easier
to ask for and obtain information quickly. However, it does mean a large amount of time is spent answering e-mail requests and searching for information on the internet that we do not have available in the form of books or publications at the museum.
Botanical information and plant names were supplied to farmers, learners, the
The botany section aims to study, conserve and promote an appreciation of the rich botanical diversity of the arid envi-ronments of the Northern Cape, for the benefit of its people.
The Richard Liversidge Memorial Garden and Friends of the Museum at the opening ceremony.
B o t a n y
Tania Anderson, Botanist;Annemarie van Heerden, Collection Manager5
12 135/4/03 " A fantastic museum. Among the best!
Congratulations"Tracey McKay, Boksburg
public, environmental consultants, for various displays, and government departments. A number of popular articles were written and are in press. Information support was provided to several post-graduate students of the Universities of the Free State and Cape Town.
A practical training course on the botany of the Kimberley area was given to the bird guide trainees being trained by Duan Biggs of Birdlife SA and Mark Anderson of the Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation.
One conference and three workshops were attended, where input was provided and new contacts made. A number of courses were attended to improve and broaden our skills and knowledge (see list of conferences, workshops and courses attended).
Collaborative activities
Collaborative work included assisting other government departments with projects, inter alia the Sol Plaatje Municipality and the Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation.
The McGregor News was collated and edited. Text was proofread for various publications and brochures, as well as for multi-disciplinary exhibitions at the McGregor Museum.
Natural heritage conservation: herbarium activities
Ongoing herbarium activities included herbarium curation and the specialised work of collection maintenance and management. Specimen data were captured on a specialised database for plants called Specimen Database, labels printed, and new specimens prepared, mounted, accessioned and incorporated into the herbarium. Painstaking repairs to old and damaged specimens continued. Research loans were
Botanical assessments sometimes include using a faster form of transport to get the job done quickly and to get to inaccessible areas.
Dr Richard Liversidge with his book The Birds Around Us.
Annemarie marking a camel thorn tree with tape so that it will be protected during the development of a site.
sent to national herbaria, and donations were received from the H.G.W.J. Schweickherdt Herbarium and National Herbarium, Pretoria, for which we are grateful.
Specimen Database is growing steadily, and the data of 7800 plant specimens have been captured to date. This includes recent collections from 2000 until present, as well as the grass and sedge families. Currently the data of plant families that are a priority for research purposes are being captured.
Acknowledgements
Many thanks to all our donors, friends and colleagues, listed under the donors and acknowledgements section, for their continued support.
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The last twelve months were as usual a mixture of the routine and the extraordinary. Maintaining the collection in good order involved such tasks as filing, sorting and cleaning. Another mundane but necessary task was keeping the Museum's
newspaper cuttings' collection up-to-date.
A wide variety of queries and visitors were received. These ranged from a request for pictures of Victorian and Edwardian floral decorations to one for photographs of asbestos mining at Koegas and other places in the Northern Cape. In July Mrs Glendyr du Preez nee Kempen a great granddaughter of John Orr visited and looked at the large collection of Orr and Cooper family photographs. She was able to identify several people in them hitherto unknown to us.
Miss Nomalinde Msuthu began assisting in the Collection in April. She spent much of the period under review working in the Duggan-Cronin Collection. A comparison of the two sets of index cards was completed and discrepancies corrected. In June the container housing the nitrates was officially handed over to the Museum. At the same function a sum of R1 million was given to the Duggan-Cronin Foundation by the National Department of Arts and Culture. The container continues to operate effectively. It received a full service in March.
In April Mr Hart with Messrs Fortune, Riet and Moncho and Mrs Carlstein spent two days at the Upington Museum. Mr Hart and Mrs Carlstein assisted by the Curator of the Upington Museum gave the Old Parsonage (Reverend Schroeder's house) a good "springcleaning". In September
The Old Parsonage which overlooks the Orange River at Upington.
Mr Hart travelled with Mr Fortune, Mrs Carlstein and Miss Swanepoel to Vaalputs in Namaqualand. There they packed up the contents of a small Trekboer Museum which is to be relocated to a place which is more on the beaten track as far as tourists are concerned. On the trip they, sadly, did not see any spring flowers as the rains had been poor that season. However the peculiar beauty of the landscape was appreciated as was the hospitality of the people in that isolated region.
The Collection does not just consist of photographic images but also paintings. In September an exhibition of the latter done by Bishop Wilfred Gore-Browne was mounted at the William Humphreys Art Gallery to mark National Heritage Day on 24 September. It was a collaborative effort between the Museum and the Art Gallery. Eighty four of the Bishop's water colours were shown and Mr Hart did research on Gore-Browne who was a much revered figure in Kimberley. The Gore-Browne Native Training School was named in his memory. All the Gore-Browne paintings were placed between conservation tissue paper by the end of January.
In February Messrs Fortune, Jacobson and Hart journeyed to Johannesburg to see the work done by Scanshop at the Apartheid Museum and Caesar's Palace Casino Complex
P h o t o g r a p h sP h o t o g r a p h sP h o t o g r a p h s
6 Mr R Hart: CuratorAssistant: Miss N. Msuthu
14 1510/5/03 " Interesting, informative + well presented" Bob & Velda Spencer England
(Codesa exhibition). The visit was undertaken to enable them to get an idea of Scanshop's expertise as they might put together an exhibition of Duggan-Cronin photographs in Kimberley later in 2004. It is hoped that Scanshop may begin the scanning and digitizing of the Duggan-Cronin Collection quite soon.
Photographs from our collection were used by Ms. Liz Crossley in her exhibition "This was a City- All places the same" held at the Art Gallery in March. Mr T. Zandberg chose several of our early mining photographs to hang on the walls of his restaurant "Barnato's".
Two of Bishop Gore-Browne's watercolours which were displayed at the William Humphreys Art Gallery in September 2003.
A fine specimen of kokerboom near Vaalputs in Namaqualand.
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Sunet Swanepoel [email protected]
For the newly appointed Conflict Historian her first year at the Museum was extremely busy. As curator of the military collection a lot of time was spent getting familiarized with the military history collection under her care. A thorough stock taking is being done of the collection to determine:
o The extent of the collection,o The physical condition and restoration needs of
the collection,o Items on loan from other institutions, ando If any records or items are missing.
Extra shelves have been placed in the military storeroom to accommodate many items stored in boxes on the ground.
To comply with the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000 and the regulations relating to accreditation that became effective in July 2003 museums are required to apply for accreditation as collectors of firearms. The museum was asked to submit a comprehensive report on the firearms and ammunition in its collection including a description of security measures. As a result all museum firearms had to be re-checked and all unaccessioned firearms were accessioned. A computer database of firearms has been started as well, which should make control over firearms much easier. Mr J K van Blerk was very helpful in the maintenance of the collection and his knowledge of firearms and ammunition assisted the Conflict Historian a great deal.
Due to a lack of supervision and care the trek-farmer museum at Vaalputs, close to Springbok, was closed. Together with Mrs Carlstein and Messrs Hart & Fortune the Conflict Historian assisted NECSA (Nuclear and Energy Corporation of SA) with temporarily storing the museum items until a new home can be found. Items were cleaned and restored where possible. A complete inventory of items was also compiled. The Kamieskroon municipality has expressed interest in these items and hopefully they will be transferred to a new museum in the near future.
Research undertaken by the Conflict Historian included:
o Gladstone Cemetery for the report: Salvage and investigation of graves disturbed by the Sol Plaatje Municipality outside the Gladstone Cemetery, Kimberley. July 2003.
o Names of the Northern Cape victims of conflict for the Freedom Park Project.
o The history of Galeshewe suburb commissioned by the Sol Plaatje Municipality for the Greater No 2 Conservation project.
o Information for the Ten years of Democracy display.
Work was done at the Magersfontein Museum and a display panel providing a summary of the Western Campaign was mounted above the railway line map.
The Conflict Historian gave talks to four Grade 7 groups of Olympic Primary School on the 1952 Mayibuye Uprising in Galeshewe. The learners showed enormous interest and made the Conflict Historian sweat with all their intelligent questions. Queries about various aspects of military history were answered throughout the year, most of which related to the South African War.
On the academic front Sunet Swanepoel obtained her Post Graduate Diploma in Archival Studies in July 2003 with distinction from Technikon SA.
Acquisitions received during the year included a donation by Mrs V Birch of a Kimberley Regiment parade register as well as a military bedroll donated by Ms F Barbour.
Many thanks to colleagues and friends listed under the donors and acknowledgement section for their continued support.
7D e p a r t m e n tD e p a r t m e n t
C o n f l i c t H i s t o r yD e p a r t m e n t
16 176/8/03 " Very good museum" Hirolco Aolin Hamburg
For everything there is a time, and the time has now come that I have to leave the Museum. Thank you to all the staff members who made the last 13½ years enjoyable for me at work. I know that I will miss this interesting and sometimes mad place and people a lot!
Since November 2001, when the IT Officer left the Museum, I have “inherited” his important role and, for me, mostly frustrating duties. Frustrating because of the fact that hard-ware and software problem solving, running after defective printers, computers and non-working-email queries were never my cup of tea. In spite of this I have coped with this most thankless job for almost 90% of the time, while my own layout and typesetting work had to be fitted in between.
As far as DTP is concerned, I worked closely with other government units and departments, especially the Northern Cape Library Services, HOD’s Office, the Department of Water Affairs and the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, Environment & Conservation.
I did the logo and designs used on promotional material for Library Services 2004, and I would like to thank Mrs Sunita Vallabh for always considering my workload and, if she needed my assistance, for discussing it with me well in advance of her deadlines.
For Heritage Day 2003 I designed an invitation to the Opening of the Abraham Esau Memorial near Calvinia, as well as posters advertising the event and liased the printing thereof. In fact, I also designed the memorial, which was eventually built but demolished again within a month.
Compared to previous Annual Report periods, this year was a little bit less hectic, although we had our fair share of stressful days and weeks here and there.
The McGregor Museum also worked in close co-operation with the Karoo Hoogland Municipality on the project for a nostalgic route map for the town of Fraserburg. I did the design and layout of the map, and Vida Allen assisted with the research.
Throughout the year there were various talks by many staff members, and I assisted in the designing of their PowerPoint presentations.
Early in 2004 I assisted Mr Johan Cronjé of the Sol Plaatje Museum and taught his assistant the scanning process. We also envisage typesetting and layout classes later in this year, so as to enable them to do all layout work in-house for all the books and publications they need to publish.
I worked on a proposed map for the Galeshewe Walk project and also assisted in the layout of the Museum researchers’ report on this topic for their project with the Sol Plaatje Municipality.
The main project for me during this period was the display posters and time-line puzzle pieces for our 10 Years of Democracy Display, which was opened on Museums Day 2004. I enjoyed working on this project and would like to thank Vida Allen especially for working together so nicely on this and other projects.
8P u b l i s h i n gP u b l i s h i n g
D e s k t o p P u b l i s h i n g
Annette Coetzee
18 19
The 2003/4 period was a busy one and some of the work done included:
On 20 February 2004, the museum participated in the departmental display at the re-opening of the Northern Cape Legislature.
Maintenance work on the Regiment Display was completed in August 2003 when all the cases were systematically cleaned. Adjustments had to be made to comply with the new laws pertaining to weapons in this display as well as in other permanent displays which was the task of Sunet Swanepoel and which also covered the regional museums’ displays and collections.
9D i s p l a y sD i s p l a y sD i s p l a y s
Helicia Delport and Marié Lodewyk
We also had the pleasure to work with Elna Marais on a small display in a box-frame for the Williston Museum. This lady is also the driving force behind numerous projects, one of which includes a Sutherland Streetmap, which is in the pro-cess of being edited by the team - includ-ing Vida Allen, Margaret Fouché, Suzanne Erasmus, Tania Anderson and Robert Hart. Funding for the printing of this map still has to be secured by this regional office. The rows of cases in the centre of the Hall of Religion were cleaned and rearranged to accommodate additions from the Salvation Army and Christian Science Church under the guidance of Brigit Carlstein and Selina Maarman.
Magersfontein Museum got much needed attention due to damage to the permanent displays and one of the last tasks that Heli-cia performed before setting off in pursuit of independence, was to repair and replace a figure in the “trenches”. (She will be missed in the “display section” trenches where she “fought” to upgrade our tools and thereby created opportunities to apply our skills in different areas). Annette Coetzee also had to print and laminate a final outstanding la-bel of 3.7m by 0.55m for this museum, which will be installed shortly.
Work on the History Gallery dioramas is still moving along progressively but surely and another one will be installed this year. This is one project that enables us to ex-plore new materials and is very rewarding in that sense.
Two of the dioramas recently completed.
18 1919/9/03 " Very informative" Setshwerapelo Prim. Taung
In preparation for the Archaeological Conference held in April 2004, I had the opportunity to design and print three posters for David Morris and the group that included Karen van Ryneveld, Elizabeth Voigt and Vincent Dinku.
Posters for the ArchaeologicalConference.
There has been a much appreciated injection from the “The Scan Shop” specialist regarding our equipment’s use and maintenance as well as a few scanning lessons!
The present decrease in the number of staff in the Display section will hopefully be temporary, and as soon as these posts are again filled by talented individuals, like those gone before them, the opportunity for renewal of this essential cog in the museum’s functioning will be visible in our displays and to the benefit of the community we aim to serve.
20 21
[email protected] or [email protected]
COLLECTIONS
Archaeozoology
The former Deputy Director of the McGregor Museum, Mrs Elizabeth Voigt, is still working on this collection for her Ph.D. She is currently a research associate in the Zoology Department (See report).
Zoology
Although a number of new specimens were accessioned, a large percentage of collected specimens are still awaiting preparation. Jack Oliphant will attend a course in basic museum-orientated taxidermy in the 2005 financial year in order to address this backlog. Beryl Wilson is still busy feeding all outstanding data into the various databases, and she plans to start on the lower vertebrate collection as soon as the mammal and bird databases are completed. A large number of requests were made for information regarding the contents of the various collections, while loan transactions with other institutions were performed on a constant basis. The databases were also extensively used in the carrying out of ecological impact assessments. We are currently looking at a system where we can introduce our collections to the less privileged learners of the Northern Cape Province. It is also with great sadness that we say farewell to Dr Richard Liversidge, a great man and researcher. He was a departmental research associate for a number of years.
RESEARCH
The following research projects are still ongoing:
Ø Ecology and population dynamics of Northern Cape springbok.
Ø Distr ibution and ecological status of the mammalifauna, avifauna and herpetofauna of the bigger Northern Cape Province.
Ø Black-footed cat research: We received funding from various overseas institutions for research into Black-footed Cat genetics and distribution.
Fieldwork included:
Ø A three-week long field trip to Bushmanland to look for black-footed cats. We managed to locate a specimen, thus expanding its current distribution range drastically.
Ø Assisting the farming community with various chemical and physical game capture, culling and census exercises.
Ø Assisting Mr Mark Anderson (Northern Cape Nature Conservation), also a depar tmental research associate, with the annual vulture-ringing programme.
Ø Various Ecological Impact Assessments (EIA). The funds generated from EIA’s were applied to provide for the basic needs of the department.
Research is an ongoing process in the Zoology Depart-ment and a number of popular and scientific articles were produced throughout the year.
The Zoology Department once again played a leading role in serving the needs and enquiries of the public during 2003/4. The rest of our time was spent on several research projects and managing the multifaceted zoological collections
(vertebrates). The various activities of this department were as follow:
Beryl Wilson busy baiting a cat trap during our Bushmanland fi eld trip.
10Z o o l o g yZ o o l o g yZ o o l o g y
Dr P.C Anderson (Curator/Researcher), Ms B.Y. Wilson (Collection Manager) and Mr J. Oliphant (Preparator)
20 2125/10/03 " A Museum with a solid ER Kamahangire Uganda
Photo (Vulture): James Riet standing on a camel thorn tree holding an African Whitebacked Vulture chick.
Joint research with various other institutions as fol-lows:
Ø Dr Gary Voelker and Mr Thomas Gnoske (from the University of Memphis and Chicago Field Museum respectively) joined the department for a month. We visited the Karoo to collect bird specimens for taxonomic work.
Ø Dr Alex Sliwa (Wuppertal Zoo, Germany) - Black-footed Cat ecology.
Ø De Beers Consolidated Mines, Ecology Division.
Ø University of the Orange Free State.
Ø Northern Cape Nature Conservation
DEGREES
During this period Beryl completed the second year of her honors degree, obtaining a well-deserved distinction.
COMMITTEES/FORUMS
The department played an active role in the following committees/forums:
Ø Kimberley Airport Bird Strike Committee
Ø Northern Cape Raptor Conservation Forum
Ø Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (Northern Cape Region). Beryl also represented the Northern Cape Region as a Councillor at the annual Board and Council meetings held in Cape Town and Howick.
MAGERSFONTEIN
No large scale culling of springbok took place during this period. A small number of animals were placed out as a hunting package and the received revenue were ploughed back into Magersfontein.
22 23
Another project that we are currently busy with is The Special Pensions. By virtue of its special nature in relation to conditions attached for its realisation, the Special Pensions Project covers all patriotic South Africans and those who may qualify for South African citizenship that brought about a new democratic dispensation in our country irrespective of any political affiliation. In terms of benefits, the Special Pensions Act of 1996 also covers all those who are dependents of the deceased who served full time in the political struggle for a new South African democratic dispensation. Boitumelo and I have to date interviewed more than 230 individuals who applied earlier and 9 new applications. Among these, there are those that we have already interviewed for our own initial research. During this process, we came across individuals we had never known and the role they played during the liberation struggle, it was interesting to make these contacts for future research. It is based on two categories, firstly, people who were directly involved in the struggle. Secondly, it relates to people who, although they might not have been directly involved in the struggle, were nevertheless affected in one way or the other, and are entitled to benefit from the Act. Another interesting and sometimes frustrating aspect of this research is that we encountered people who mistook us as officials from the Treasury Department and we are constantly being inundated with querries regarding their pensions payment even with visits to our respective homes. I was even reported to the Public Protector by an applicant who was under the impression that we are withholding his payment!
We were invited along with the ANC’s Veterans to our Premier’s birthday party that was held at the Northern Cape Legisalature Building where we were given the platform to explain the the Special Pensions Project.
The Sol Plaatje Municipality approached us to conduct research around Greater Number Two in Galeshewe. During this interesting project we identified public spaces and areas of heritage significance. These include houses of individuals who were leaders in the Galeshewe community in the past and these houses had to be renovated where neccessary whilst others had to be painted.
I am grateful to Ms Boitumelo Mosegeleng for her continued volunteerism in this department, Messrs Letlhogonolo Mngqolo and Seretse Mngqolo for their video cassettes dubbing that they do so diligently.
The Robben Island Project is still on course, I am left with only one participant to interview, whom I find difficult to locate. I have recently interviewed Mr Joey Kers who works in the Free State Province. After sacrificing a day’s leave from work, he was compelled to extend his stay in Kimberley for another two days to enable us to complete this important interview. It happened after he realised the significance of recording his life story and has been helpful since then. To date two of my interviewees have since passed away, the first being Ben Fani and recently the Reverend Mocumi Maropong who also was the Museum’s Board Member. Both men were keen to see this project succeed. I was fortunate to have interviewed Reverend Maropong in 2002, and it was during this interview that I got to know him better. He gave me his
full co-operation and supported me on this endeavour. The same can also be said of Ben Fani.
L i v i n g H i s t o r yL i v i n g H i s t o r yD e p a r t m e n tD e p a r t m e n tL i v i n g H i s t o r yD e p a r t m e n t
11 Sephai Mngqolo
Rev. Mocumi Maropong, an activist and Museum Board member, who was inter-viewed during 2003
22 2325/10/03 " Muito Interessante" Teodato Nquirazi Mozambique
The librarian works in a shape-shifting environment. A storeroom, converted to periodicals stack room, will be converted again into a reading room containing all the literature donated (to the museum) by the late Dr R Liversidge. During his time as Director of the museum, and in his retirement years, Dr Liversidge was generous in his donations of scientific journals, papers and books to the library. Work has begun on the reading room which will also contain all the museum’s literature on birds and birding. Our thanks go to Mrs Vivienne Liversidge for her work in the preparatory sorting of Doctor L’s books.
For years the stoep, which leads off the main library, has been a glory hole of boxes containing everything that should have been disposed of in ages gone by. Following a break-in through a partition, it was decided to convert the stoep into a proper storeroom for excess library material. A veil of dust shall be drawn over the moving of boxes, the demolition of partitions, the building and painting of solid walls, and the erection of shelving. Thanks are due to the workshop personnel of the museum, for their hard work in the renovations. Even worse than the demolition was the sorting out of the boxes to everlasting commentary from those staff who are sentimental packrats by nature and felt that all should be kept, regardless of lack of storage space. Following instructions given by her director, and based upon her training and experience, the librarian indulged in a spring clean. Very special thanks are owed to Mrs Jenny Gibbs who, armed with a duster and face mask, spent weeks upside down in grubby boxes sorting out items for keeping or recycling. Worthwhile material of interest to people as far afield as Cape Town was sorted and sent on to a new home. Old bound copies of the Diamond Fields Advertiser are now safely and securely housed. An amusing addendum to the springclean came from the Packrat Brigade, who took it upon themselves to return discarded items (behind the librarian’s back) to the sections they deemed would find the material valuable. This ended up in a shredding session by irritated curators who did not appreciate this effort at all.
For reasons unknown, the librarian also decided to re-organise the maps in the map collection achieving, at one and the same time, both a cleaning and stocktaking of the map holdings and a backache which lasted for days. The effort proved worthwhile, but is not one which will be repeated soon.
During the year 70 new books were accessioned and processed. Our donors play a great part in allowing us to add newly published titles to our holdings. De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd deserve special thanks for their continued support of the library. Titles purchased from the De Beers grant this year included the following:Rebirth of science in Africa (H Baijnath); South Africa’s environmental history (S Dovers, et al); Indigenous knowledge and the integration of knowledge systems ( C Hoppers, ed); Refi guring the archive (C Hamilton) and Poisonous plants of South Africa (B van Wyk). Conflict history received two books of note: G Benneyworth’s thesis entitled Re-interpreting military landscapes: the Battle of Belmont and Ron Bester’s volume on Small arms of the Anglo Boer War 1899-1902. Staff members, past and present, are also thanked for remembering the library during the past year.
Formal interlibrary loan requests were limited to 48, due largely to staff making use of personal contacts and the Internet for their specific needs. We offer our thanks to our friends at the National Museum, Bloemfontein, for their assistance when requested.
Routine meetings were attended as demanded during the year. The workshop on Emergency Planning and Disaster Management held at the William Humphreys Art Gallery, 18-19 September 2003, proved informative.
The librarian spent a great deal of time in editing, proofreading and translating of texts, required for a variety of purposes. Translating the Fraserburg Walking Tour map (with illustrations) proved a taxing but interesting task. The finished product was very satisfying. Proof-reading the text for a publication on the history of Galeshewe made the librarian cross-eyed, but again resulted in a satisfactory effort. The labels for a major display on the Ten Years of
Democracy kept the librarian busy for hours, and the final posters were pleasing to see. The librarian also did duty as front-of–house caretaker, when required to do so. It is such things which provide a sense of variety amidst library routine.
The year passed was enjoyable enough, and not without its highlights. However, that ever-hopeful sign of “Gone fishing” still hangs behind the librarian’s door.
The year has passed pleasantly enough, with the routine of classification and cataloguing (both current and retrospective) proceeding steadily. The other work necessary in maintaining order in accommodation not meant for books was carried out effectively. Thanks are due to Mrs Elizabeth Moshounyane for her efficiency in keeping the library as clean and
dust-free as possible.
L i b r a r y S e r v i c e sL i b r a r y S e r v i c e sL i b r a r y S e r v i c e s
12 M Fouche, Librarian
24 25
[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]
At the opening of a year one anticipates the general shape of things to come. Projects are set up within time and costing constraints: research objectives are formulated; fieldwork is followed by analysis and by report writing/publication; and, ultimately, an archive of objects, notes, maps and photographs is assembled at the museum for posterity, accessible to future researchers or other interested persons. Publication and outreach may include conference presentations, formal papers, popular articles, media releases, displays, talks and education programmes, or even input to curriculum development. Occasionally the educational aspect or community involvement may begin during fieldwork, with a sharing of hands-on experiences with participants in the processes of finding out about the past. This much can be predicted and planned. But in archaeology, also expect the unexpected.
Past, present and future, literally, may change with the scrape of an archaeologist’s trowel. Replace the trowel with a developer’s bulldozer or back-actor (the more so if there has been no prior impact assessment), and the normal course of events may unravel even more dramatically. This was brought home to us in drastic fashion hardly a month into the year under review. All available resources and personnel needed urgently to be redeployed for the enormous task of rescuing human remains that were accidentally disturbed during development work outside Kimberley’s historic Gladstone Cemetery. Even after extra help was enlisted, the fieldwork alone took five and a half months; and work on the rescued remains, after they were brought to the museum, spilled over into the following year.
What had happened was that trenching for storm water drainage alongside the present Gladstone Cemetery had inadvertently cut through unmarked burials: 145 graves had been damaged and some of the remains were in ground removed to a dumping site half a kilometer away. In terms of the National Heritage Resources Act, an archaeological investigation was required. This we set up in tandem with archival research (thank you to Sunet Swanepoel) and community/oral history inputs. Not much oral history was directly relevant to the graves in question, however: some local community members said they were the graves of “Skotse soldate” (Scottish soldiers), but we suspected otherwise.
Altogether more significant than these attempts to obtain living memories of forgotten graves was the drawing in of up to 12 unemployed members of the public from across the city to participate in the investigation. In the process they were given basic practical experience in archaeological fieldwork and, informed by this on-the-job learning of some of the methods and objectives of archaeology, they were effective in communicating positively with the many visitors to the site on the rescue work in progress. The core group of community participants forms a team now called upon
from time to time to help in other archaeology projects at the museum. In the process the Gladstone and subsequent projects have also resulted in a modest level of job creation. David Morris and Karen van Ryneveld were joined by Liz Voigt in running this project.
As to the findings, we rescued and investigated 15 of the 145 damaged graves (the trench was re-routed so that the remainder of the graves did not need to be disturbed further). What astounded us was that these 15 graves yielded more than 100 skeletons. By far the majority were young mature males. Their bangles, glass beads and copper ear-rings suggested rural African cultural affinities. Most were probably migrant workers. Archival evidence indicated a late 1890s date. There is evidence that many of the bodies had come to the cemetery via a hospital: several skeletons showed surgical procedures, including amputations of limbs and some autopsies. Remains of medical dressings were also found. There may have been some form of burial rite conducted at the graveside in some instances, but in the majority of cases, where bodies had been dropped in carelessly one on top of another, it is hard to imagine much, if any, attendant ceremony. It is expected that detailed physical anthropological research will greatly amplify the evidence amassed already. In community consultation meetings approval has been given for further research to determine more about the individuals from these graves.
We had been able to secure a permit for this work because matters concerning human remains were considered a national responsibility for the SA Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA). But all other archaeological work was subject to provincial heritage administration. The continued non-functioning of a Provincial Heritage Resources Agency (PHRA), despite the coming into existence of a PHRA Council in our province, meant that no permits could be obtained for any other work here. It finally took delays on a housing project in February 2004 for province to set up an interim bureaucratic accommodation whereby we can now do our work. There is a not inconsiderable back-log and it is possible that some sites have been destroyed by impatient developers. The possibility of at last being able to obtain permits also opens up the potential for a number of collaborative research projects in the province. We have had preliminary discussions concerning a new phase of work at Wonderwerk Cave (which is in the process of being nominated for Grade 1 National Heritage Site status) with Prof Michael Chazan (Toronto University) and Liora Horwitz (Hebrew University, Jerusalem); on work by Isabelle Parsons (Cambridge University) on Later Stone Age herder and forager sites in the Karoo; on excavations at Rooidam by Folke Richardt (University of Lund, Sweden); and historical archaeology at Wildebeest Kuil by Lindsay Weiss (Columbia University, New York).
A r c h a e o l o g yA r c h a e o l o g yA r c h a e o l o g y
13 David Morris(Curator, Researcher); Karen van Ryneveld (Researcher); Vincent Dinku (Collections Manager)
David Morris(Curator, Researcher); Karen van Ryneveld
24 2528/11/03 " Extremely well presented & interesting McKenzie Family Australia
David Morris and Karen van Ryneveld carried out numerous impact assessments (and, since we could not obtain permits, sometimes stood by helplessly with trowel in hand while bulldozers did their worst). These projects included site assessments by Karen at Rooipoort and Wildebeest Kuil 3 (site of the new Platfontein housing development), while slimes dam and mine dump spillage over graves at Schmidtsdrift required careful excavation not of graves as such but of the burial ground as a whole, to be fenced and protected. David joined Lita Webley for some weeks in December documenting sites within the Namaqua National Park near Kamieskroon. The archaeology department also compiled a chapter for the CSIR State of the Environment Report for the Northern Cape.
Visits to the Richtersveld and Alexander Bay, with Colin Fortune, were for advancing plans on local museum development, particularly at Eksteenfontein. We participated in various other outreach activities, giving talks for school and adult groups and tourists, taking part in the Science and Technology Week, in the joint Museum-WESSA-Historical Society ‘Cultures and Vultures’ lecture programme, and giving a presentation at Africa Day in May. Talks were given at Wildebeest Kuil, at a Rotary lunch, at an Archaeological Society excursion, and at the William Humphreys Art Gallery. David Morris was invited to give a lecture as part of a series on Southern African rock art at the University of Cape Town Summer School in January 2004, and on that occasion he transported an engraving from the museum’s collection that would feature in the Democracy X exhibition being presented by Iziko Museums. Research material was made available for the writing of the book Every Step of the Way: ten years of freedom in South Africa (Michael Morris, for the Ministry of Education). David Morris and Karen van Ryneveld both contributed to a booklet for teachers and gave presentations at the South African History Project Regional Teachers’ Workshop co-organised and hosted by the Museum and the Provincial Education Department. As Brian Fagan remarked recently in the
journal Antiquity, “teaching is probably the most important thing that we do, simply because an informed public of the future is the best advocate of all for archaeology.”
Some progress was made towards building shelving in our storeroom and Collections Manager Vincent Dinku organised the movement of collections. Numerous collections were marked and accessioned, with help from some of our Gladstone team-members.
On the conference/workshop calendar were: a Cape Town meeting hosted by the HSRC to discuss intangible heritage; the Melon Foundation workshop on digitisation of rock art holdings; a research meeting on human remains in Cape Town; the South African History Society’s biennial conference in Bloemfontein; and the international Khoe and San Research and Development Conference in Gaborone, Botswana. David Morris also attended meetings of the Provincial Geographical Names Committee.
Archaeology staff and research associates have been involved in planning the Southern African Association of Archaeologists’ Conference to be held in Kimberley in April 2004, including a workshop on historical archaeology beforehand, and an excursion to key sites afterwards. Our team was temporarily augmented by Folke Richardt who was out here from Sweden planning work at Rooidam and carrying out collections-based research.
Finally, Karen van Ryneveld had secured a post – in which we wished her every success – with AMAFA KwaZulu-Natal in Pietermaritzburg as of April 2004; and a busy month helping with excursion preparations and work on Wildebeest Kuil 3 preceded her move.
Gladstone: 14 skeletons were piled up in this grave
26 27
The Guide-Lecturer post remains vacant, leaving the Education Department with a staff complement of one part-time person. I am grateful to Ms Miemie Dreyer who assisted me as a guide during 2003. A number of special lessons and tours were offered during this period, including: two groups from the Schmidtsdrift San school, hosted by the Language Unit (July 2003); a Wildlife and Environment Society of SA tour group from KwaZulu-Natal (August 2003) and two groups from Hoërskool Adamantia, for OBE lessons in Human and Social Sciences in the Ancestors Gallery (September 2003).
I assisted Mr Howard Hendricks of the SA National Parks with the WESSA Aloe pillansii (Basterkokerboom) Puzzle Project, which aims to make learners aware of the plight of this rare plant. Puzzles, worksheets and information packs were distributed to schools in the Richtersveldt (March 2003) and to Laerskool Newton, Montshiwa Primary School and Jannie Brink Special School, as well as the Adamantia Landsdiens Club and Saint Mary’s Catholic Church Sunday School in Kimberley (April 2003). I judged a poster competition for schools organised by the Department of Education and gave special museum lessons to four groups of learners from farm schools, as part of the Environment Week Project (June 2003).
Teaching resources (Aloe pillansii puzzles & Envirokids magazines) distributed to local schools.
Although the Resource Centre is not fully operational due to the shortage of staff, a number of teachers and pupils were assisted with information from our growing number of books, magazines and information files. Information and pictures of the San was collected for Mr Roland Maree of the Education Department for the Grade 9 CASS / CTA assessments. I am grateful to Johanet Kriel who did a great deal of work in sorting out the Resource Centre from August 2003.
I assisted museum colleagues by editing pamphlets for the Belgravia and Fraserburg walking tours, labels for Magersfontein and the "Ten Years of Democracy display". I was also asked by Mr Mark Anderson of the Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation to edit the new Afrikaans edition of the booklet "Raptor Conservation in the Northern Cape Province".
Regular meetings of the Environmental Education Forum were held with Mr Jabu Mongale, the Environmental Education Co-ordinator of the Department of Education, and other environmental education practitioners. I continued my duties as secretary of the Kimberley Environmental Education Working Group (KEEWG) and chairperson of the Northern Cape Committee of the Wildlife and Environment Society (WESSA) and served on the Keep Kimberley Clean Committee (KKC) and the Flamingo Environmental Trust (FET). Through these organisations a number of environmental education projects were tackled during this reporting period: Information was sent to local schools on the WESSA / EnviroKids/ Interwaste "Cheeky Monkey" competition. Three pupils of Tshwarelela Primary School won prizes in this competition (April 2003).
E d u c a t i o n a l S e r v i c e s
14 S Erasmus, Education Officer
26 2713/12/03 " Comprehensive & didactic like museum of old.
Unexpectedly enjoyable. Keep going!"Gregory Mumon Yorkshire England
Four bird guides, of the Bird Guide Training Project of the Department of Tourism, Environment and Conservation and BirdLife SA, received training on local history and the environment at the museum (November & December 2003) and I am providing ongoing support for their efforts in starting a bird club and environmental clubs at schools in Galeshewe.Negotiations are underway with Spoornet and other stakeholders on the erection of a special viewing platform at Kamfers Dam. A successful application was made through WESSA to the Lomas Wildlife Protection Trust for funding to erect information boards on this viewing platform, with the aim of promoting awareness about Kamfers Dam, wetlands and waterbirds, especially flamingos (January 2004).Work continued on a number of Agenda 21 projects during this reporting period. A group of teachers from the Falun - Borlänge region in Sweden were hosted at the museum (October 2003) and I helped Mrs Alma Strydom of Laerskool Staatspresident Swart to plan her lessons for her exchange visit to Sweden (March 2003). Trees were planted and workshops held, with Wendy Peine of Keep Kimberley Clean, at Tshiamo and KimKgolo Primary Schools, as part of the Galeshewe Urban Renewal Programme (February 2004). This project will continue in the spring.During Water Week (March 2004), packs of 25 copies each of the "Rain catchers" issue of the EnviroKids magazine were distributed to 12 local schools and libraries.
I was saddened by the death of Dr Richard Liversidge in September 2003. Dr Liversidge was the Director of the museum when I first joined the staff in 1979 and his vast knowledge and special brand of leadership, combining wisdom, humour and humility, made an indelible impression on me. His enthusiasm for and dedication to the conservation of the Northern Cape environment, and to the development of educational opportunities for young people of all walks of life, continue to inspire me in all aspects of my work.
The educators and learners of KimKgolo Primary School who planted fruit and shade trees at their school.
Trees were also planted by community members along the streets around the school, as part of the Galeshewe Urban
Renewal Programme.
Learners of Lekkersing Primary School in the Richtersveldt with their Aloe pillansii puzzles.
A follow-up visit to the food gardens at the Bloemanda Masakhane Clinic.
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Various smaller municipalities approached the museum for assistance with their museums. Trips were organised to Phokwane for discussions on their museum as well as Prieska for preliminary discussions on the revamping of their existing museum and the establishing of a museum on asbestos. During the year I have organised many different talks and tours by various individuals including a talk on "Kimberley Ghosts" by Steve Lunderstedt; a talk by Prof Wallace Van Zyl on the "Capital city controversy"; a guided tour of the new Legislature buildings; a talk by Dr PC Anderson entitled ADr Richard Liversidge: from birds to beasts", and the Historical Society day at the Moth Club during the Cultures & Vultures week. It was during this event that I presented a talk on "Early Kimberley". A paper on "Oral History" for the History Teachers Conference was delivered on Saturday, 17 May 2003.
Two days were spent training the bird guides in historical background. The training was attended by Andries Mokgele, Willy Pike, Eugene Pienaar and Gilbert Matlhoko. They were very keen to learn about the history of Kimberley, especially the old buildings and the houses in Belgravia. They were interested in the historical environment and asked many questions. I wish them all the best for their future as tour guides.
Research was done for several walking tours. The Belgravia Walk was upgraded and Kimberley artist Judith Horner did the illustrations for a booklet which was launched with a very well attended Belgravia Walk and viewing of the original illustrations at the Art Gallery on 23 August 2003. The Nostalgic Walking Route of Fraserburg (part 2 of the Walking Tours of the Karoo Hoogland Municipality) was also printed.
The research for the walking tour of the Monument Hill area was completed but has not yet been published. In connection with this, which includes the Carrington Road Conservation area, I had to attend an Appeal Tribunal as the museum objected to the rezoning of this historically residential suburb. The erection of modern homes, townhouses or offices in such an historically sensitive area can only lead to a further destruction of our rich and colourful past. The nature of Kimberley, and particularly its historic areas cannot be allowed to be destroyed indiscriminately for short-term profiteering. Tourism is always being touted as Athe way to go" and Kimberley's historical heritage should be its pride and joy, which extends further than the Big Hole. The indiscriminate rezoning of residential areas is a destructive trend which can completely destroy the character of a town. Research was undertaken to answer the 66 queries the archives received. The AA map was once again revised and expanded. Routine duties of this department included documentation and indexing. As the department does not have a collections manager, I am extremely grateful for the voluntary assistance received from Ms Johanet Kriel. A policy for the History Dept has been drawn up. We also paid a visit to the National Museum in Bloemfontein to look at the principles of managing historical collections.
The archives received many donations but special mention should be made of a major donation of the !Khu & Kwe papers from Mr Jan Viljoen. This community forms such an integral part of the history of the Northern Cape and these papers are now in safekeeping for future generations.
The History department was approached by the Sol Plaatje Municipality who, in cooperation with the Dept of Local Government and Housing, is busy with the Urban Renewal of Galeshewe.
We had to determine a precinct for a conservation area. We did this by identifying houses and sites of historical significance and buildings with architectural merit. Thereafter research was done for a tourist brochure, a walking tour
and roadside histories in Greater No 2.
A r c h i v e s a n dA r c h i v e s a n dP h o t o g r a p h sP h o t o g r a p h sA r c h i v e s a n dP h o t o g r a p h s
V. Allen, Cultural Historian15
28 29Michael & Sally Gainsborough London U.K." I came to school here in 1940's"15/2/04
Guided tours of Rudd House, Dunluce, McGregor Museum and Belgravia were given to individuals and groups. Many researchers consulted the archival collection for their publications or television documentaries. During September I assisted a TV crew with research for a film on John Weston and Compton Patterson. I was interviewed by Mercedes from the SABC on various aspects of Kimberley history. An interview was held with Mrs Frances Schwabe on her memories of Lodge Road. Research is still being conducted for the "10 years of Democracy" display which is to be opened on International Museums Day.
With the assistance of Mrs Jenny Gibbs a very successful wine tasting evening was held in the Ballroom. This boosted the coffers of the Sanatorium Restoration Fund so much that the Ballroom could be repainted.
There are many people who have to be thanked for their invaluable assistance. We were concerned about the Cape Police Memorial as new townhouses are being erected around it. The developer of Police Park, Mr Jan Naborn, however, assured us that the monument would be very well looked after. He had also restored the wheels on the gun. Thank you also to the Hospital Works Committee for fixing the roof of the Sister Henrietta Chapel. During March the Museum Outreach Bus was parked at the Art Gallery where interviews were being held with people from the Malay Camp. This was mostly conducted by Mr Louis Mallett. Thank you once again for helping us to take care of our heritage.
In September the death of my mentor, Dr Richard Liversidge, came as a great shock. I felt very honoured by my colleagues who asked me to preside over the proceedings at the launch of the Richard Liversidge Memorial Garden. I shall always hold fond memories of `Dr L'.
Police Memorial
Last but not least I should like to thank my Director, Mr Colin Fortune, who gave me the opportunity to attend the Premier's Excellence Award Ceremony on 11 April 2003. Although we did not win one of the first three prizes we did get a special award and it was an enjoyable evening.
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Conservation and documentation
A good deal of progress was made this year in the anthropology collection. Most artefacts are sorted out and we have started accessioning. All the artefacts are in the anthropology storeroom and some in the fumigation chamber because we still face the problem of lack of space, and as a result of that some artefacts would otherwise have to lie on the floor. Documentation is still done on the books, as we still need a register book and a complete database. However, we managed to create space for some artefacts while waiting for resources like computers and printers to carry on with documenting and accessioning of the artefacts. Thus, proper conservation has not yet been done.
16A n t h r o p o l o g yA n t h r o p o l o g y
Projects
1. What’s in a name?
During heritage month, the anthropology department introduced museum bus to Isago Primary School and Molehabangwe Primary School. This was a collaborative effort with the South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA) with the project named “what’s in a name’. The programme started with the workshop for educators and was positively received in all schools that were invited. The aim of the project was to establish the importance of Heritage (Sites) in each region. Learners were given names of places and were able to object about historical and symbolic significance and asked to research how the names came into being named. The project was launched in two schools on the 23rd of September 2004.
[email protected]/ [email protected]
Lesego Mogami, Researcher / CuratorMimi Seetelo, Collection Manager
Research
So far research has been done on some artefacts in our collection. We have conducted interviews and collected data on artefacts on Batlhaping in Schmidsdrift, the San community of Platfontein, Douglas community and within the local community. We have liased with researchers from various institutions requesting information about the collection. In April 2004 we had researchers from France doing research on the San hunting weapons.
Communication and Education
The staff of social anthropology gave a talk at Radio Teemaneng, briefly elaborating about heritage and how social anthropology can be incorporated into the school curriculum. They also explained the role of museum to the people and to teachers from various schools in the province. Also teachers were invited to the museum and a guided tour was arranged for them to see their work.
2. Unity in Diversity and Heritage (Sites)
As part of outreach and education, we have produced a documentary in collaboration with South African Heritage Resource Agency (SAHRA), and Emmanuel H School: “UNITY IN DIVERSITY” which won first position nationally in the finals. The key objective of the documentary was to make an educational tool that will market and promote heritage resources in the province. We filmed at various sites, languages, people that represent diversity in the province. This was the anthropological initiative with our resource centre and the prize was accompanied by special thanks from our President, Thabo Mbeki. The award winner was a special trip to Mali of which we were part of the delegation, but due to lack of funding for the trip we were unable to attend the national competition.
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Healing and Cleansing Ceremony, Northern Cape
As part of our work in the anthropology section we have documented the Freedom Park healing and cleansing ceremony, which was done in all provinces for archival purpose as well as for preservation. We documented the Northern Cape ceremony, which was attended by the Northern Cape Premier Manne Dipico, various sectors and the public.
Conferences and Workshops
The following workshops and conferences were attended.
• Ms Mogami and Ms Seetelo attended the emergency preparedness and disaster-planning workshop at the William Humphrey’s Art Gallery in September 2003. The intention of the workshop was to enhance our knowledge with preservation and conservation methods.
• Ms Mogami also attended the Khoisan Conference in Botswana in September 2003. The conference was about the development and empowerment of the Khoisan community in Southern Africa. In Botswana she managed to visit various places that have rich heritage of the Batswana. She has established contacts with academics, local community members and researchers from both Batswana and Masarwa.
• In October 2003 Ms Mogami also attended the Oral History Workshop organised by the Sol Plaatje Museum and the Department of Sport Arts and Culture.
Training
Ms Lesego Mogami attended Introduction to Supervisory Effectiveness, arranged by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture in October 2003.
8/3/04 " Uitstalling baie goed, netjies & skoon T & J Hanekom Hartenbos
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General cleaning (E Mashilo: supervisor)
The general cleaning of all the museum buildings is a difficult problem, owing to chronic staff shortages. Only five staff are available to clean the main Sanatorium building (with its offices, storerooms and public display areas); the two historic house (Dunluce and Rudd); the Lady Oppenheimer Hall (which is used for a variety of functions such as wedding receptions and training seminars); the Duggan-Cronin Gallery; Chapel Street; and accommodation used by visiting researchers. When one staff member is away for any reason, many times their duties remain neglected and those occupying the offices often do their own cleaning. The use of a regular contract cleaner has eased the position a little.
The site museum, tea room and visitors’ areas at Magersfontein are under supervison of Richard Richards. Apart from assisting visitors, Mr Richards and his staff live with game (including an abundance of snakes), dust, the danger of veld fires, water problems and unrelenting heat in summer. Thanks are due to them all for sterling work done this past year.
Transport (E Mashilo: supervisor)
Vehicles and the provision of transport for official tasks remained a difficult area. There never seemed to be enough vehicles, and those that were available needed the driver to be under supernatural protection to ensure a secure trip. Vehicles are used over all kinds of roads, and they carry many different types of loads. The replacement of aged vehicles with those capable of managing light loads has eased the pressure. We seek staff co-operation, especially with the booking of vehicles, returning keys and completing log books according to procedure.
Buildings (Thys Moncho: Head: Maintenance team)
Because our buildings are old, they require constant maintenance. This provides challenges and frustrations.
Vandalism remains an ongoing problem. This includes the spraying of graffiti, and the breaking of windows and lights outside the buildings. The grounds of the Sanatorium and Duggan-Cronin are large, and security has been a problem. A devil’s fork fence has been put up and gates are kept locked after hours. Three robberies were attempted at Rudd House, which stands alone in its own large grounds. Consideration has been given to employing security guards.
The gutters of all the buildings were cleaned. Water leaks, problem geysers and equally problem drains were repaired, sometimes with the help of a plumber. The maintenance team also assisted with work at the Duggan Cronin Gallery. The historic house Dunluce received a shade house, built by the team shooting the film “Platinum”. They used the house for many of their scenes.
The director of the museum took a team to Upington, to assist the museum staff there with basic cleaning, lighting and repairs.
Gardens (J Gibbs: supervisor)
In a year of routine and not so routine activities, the usual watering, mowing, planting etc took place. Recycling of paper and bottles was a small source of income for the Garden Department but books that were not needed in the resource
centre were taken to Kids Haven. An old lawnmower was repaired and sent out to the Pioneers of Aviation Museum for Mr Moshounyane to use on the property which saves the staff having to go and mow the lawns there. A blower/vacuum was purchased to be used to keep the paving clean of leaves and debris. A chain-saw was also purchased in an effort to cut down on the costs of hiring garden services. A huge Acacia tree in the courtyard fell down, luckily missing the roof. After it had been removed the area looked really bare and the plants that enjoyed and thrived in the shade were looking sad. After much nagging and cajoling, Mr Green eventually gave permission for a shade cloth structure to be erected. It will be done in the new financial year.
Following a clean-out in the library and the sorting of all the books not relevant to the collection, the disposal of the latter began. A most sincere thank you goes to Mr T. Botoulas for the large donation received from him for the books that he selected. The money was put into the garden fund for future use.
Vandalism once again reared its ugly head and the plaque at the entrance to the Alex Hall Garden had to be cleaned with a blade and steel wool.
An area on the east side lawn was set aside for trees to be planted in memory of Dr Liversidge. The ceremony was organised by Mrs Tania Anderson and Mrs Suzanne Erasmus.
A good deal of time was spent helping the film crew shooting at Dunluce in obtaining some of the necessary >props= for the garden. The garden supervisor of the McGregor Museum took a few days leave to be an >extra= in the movie. They did not ask her to resign her day job! As a fund-raising function, the band from Noot vir Noot was contacted and asked if they would play for a dance at the McGregor Museum. The reply was that they only perform as a band for the TV show. Great pity.
Unfortunately Mr Willy Tali and Mr Lucky Ntoni did not have a good attendance record for the year due to ill health, but my thanks go to James Riet, Jackson van Schalkwyk, Pienaar van Schalkwyk and Jeffrey Davids for gallantly trying to take up the extra work load.
Workshop (IP Swarts: Supervisor)
There was much work for the workshop staff in support services and maintenance of museum buildings, and we were firing on all cylinders throughout the year.
The major projects included work on the Duggan-Cronin Gallery buildings, Dunluce and Rudd House, as well as on-going work at Chapel Street.
We made a start on shelving for the Archaeology Department and ceilings and shelving for the Social Anthropology storeroom.
The newly converted red bus/Museum Mobile Unit, fitted out with TV/video facility, poster/display units, and storage for museum specimens, went out on its first major educational trip in the province. Thanks to Mr Abdol and Mr Loeto for their work on the bus.
I wish to thank my colleagues in the workshop for their unselfish support during the year, working as a team. A very big thank you to all the gardeners for giving us a helping hand when we needed extra manpower; and to all the staff with whom we work for their contributions, and for being patient when we work in their offices and storerooms.
M a i n t e n a n c eM a i n t e n a n c eM a i n t e n a n c e
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32 3319/3/04 " Danke" Lehmhoff Germany
Elizabeth A Voigt
Field workIn April, 2003, the McGregor Museum was called in to investigate a series of graves east of Gladstone Cemetery which had been damaged during the digging of a stormwater drain. I was invited to join the team as an investigator; the field part of the project continued until October. The trench had damaged over 40 graves, of which 15 were fully excavated. Most of these were multiple graves, resulting in the exhumation of over 100 skeletons. Research showed that the area had been part of Gladstone Cemetery, and that the graves dated to about 1897 – 1900. Once the field work was completed, I continued to work in the Archaeology Department listing material and preparing it for analysis by a physical anthropologist. Several dumps of cultural material overlying some of the graves and dating to about the same period. This material will be analysed by myself as part of a project on faunal remains from turn of the century historic dumps.
In November 2003 I joined Drs. T Maggs and S Hall, both of the University of Cape Town, on a field trip to Dithakong in North West Province, where I assisted with the mapping and interpretation of the archaeological site.
Research and research planningWhen I retired in 2000 there was no faunal work available outside my own project in Natal. The situation in faunal analysis has drastically altered; by August 2004 there will be no research department in the country dedicated to archaeological faunal analysis. This has resulted in a number of approaches for assistance with various projects.
The analysis of the fauna from the Iron Age site of Simunye in Swaziland is almost complete. This is the first Iron Age site excavated in Swaziland and has proved to be extremely interesting. The excavator, Dr Miko Ohinata has received the necessary report on the material and I have been invited to submit my own full report on the project to the Annals of the Natal Museum.
Professor T Huffman of the University of the Witwatersrand has asked me to analyse a small collection from the Limpopo Valley; I am interested in this as it ties in with my work in the 1980’s in that region. The analysis is awaiting my completion of the project at Alexandersfontein (April – September 2004). I have also been invited to become involved as a specialist consultant in a joint UNISA / University of Cape Town Iron Age project in North West Province; this work will begin for me in 2005.
During 2003 Mr G Benneyworth and myself submitted an application to the National Lottery Fund for funding of an historical project relating to Black Concentration camps in the Northern Cape and North West Province during the
period 1901 – 1902. This application was successful and the funding will come through in the second half of 2004. My role in the project will be as archaeological field supervisor and principal investigator for cultural and faunal remains. The project is being run through the McGregor Museum.
Comparative collection
At the end of 2003 the comparative faunal collection and laboratory facility was moved from the Humanities Block to the old Cultural History Conservation Laboratory in the Sanatorium. The collection is now much better housed, with space for expansion, and there is adequate room for research and for the preparation of smaller specimens. I appreciate the help and support of Mr Fortune in making this space available, and wish to thank Mr A Abdol and his team for the professional way in which the laboratory was moved and re-instated.
Other work
During October 2003 I attended a Palaeontology Conference at the University of Cape Town with Dr C K Brain, a previous Director of the Transvaal Museum. He presented a paper on microfossils from Namibia which date to over 600 million years. This is somewhat older than the fauna with which I am acquainted! Before traveling back we visited the West Coast Fossil Park to collect samples there.
In March 2004 I assisted Mr Morris in the organization of a workshop on cultural material from historic dump sites which was held at the Museum prior to the conference of the S.A. Association of Archaeologists in April 2004.
Conclusion
The last twelve months have been heavily dominated by work on human skeletal material, which has been a learning curve but is not really my prime interest. The coming twelve months will see me being able to return to faunal work with the support of a number of colleagues, and I am looking forward to this.
I wish to thank the staff of the McGregor Museum for their help and support in many ways during the last twelve months and to thank Mr Fortune and the Board of Trustees for access to the Museum facilities.
R e s e a r c h A s s o c i a t e
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19 FINANCIAL REPORT
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PUBLICATIONS20ARTICLES IN REFEREED JOURNALS
ANDERSON, M.D., KOLBERG, H., ANDERSON, P.C., DINI, J. & ABRAHAMS, A. 2003. Waterbird populations at the Orange River mouth from 1980-2001: a re-assessment of its Ramsar status. Ostrich 74 (3&4): 159-172.
JACOBSON, L., LOOCK, J.C., VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, W.A., HUFFMAN, T.N. & DREYER, J.J.B. 2003. The occurrence of vitrified dung from the Kamdeboo district, southern Karoo and Den Staat, Limpopo Valley, South Africa. South African Journal of Science 99:26-28.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Rock art as source and resource: research and responsibility towards education, heritage and tourism. South African Historical Journal 49:193-206.
OTHER PUBLICATIONS
ALLEN, V. 2003. The Belgravia Walk. Kimberley, Kimberley Marketing and Promotions and McGregor Museum.
ALLEN, V. & MARAIS. E. 2003 Fraserburg, nostalgic walking tour, illustrated by Ockie Louw. 2003. Kimberley, McGregor Museum DTP. English and Afrikaans.
ALLEN, V. SWANEPOEL, S. MNGQOLO, S. & FOUCHE, M. 2004. Galeshewe History Project. Commissioned by the Sol Plaatje Municipality. McGregor Museum, Kimberley.
CARLSTEIN, A. B. 2003. Kimberley Celebrates the Coronation of Elizabeth II. Now and Then - Historical Society Newsletter. Vol II No: 2 June. 2003
CARLSTEIN, A. B. & HART. R. G. 2003. Tribute to the late Dr Richard Liversidge. Now and Then - Historical Society Newsletter. Vol II No: 3 October 2003
DEACON, H., MNGQOLO, S. & PROSELANDIS, S. 2003. Protecting our Cultural Capital: A Research Plan for the Heritage Sector. Social Cohesion & Intergration Research Programme. Human Sciences Research Council Occassional Paper 4.
HART, R.G. Personality Profile: Lawrence Green. Now and Then- Historical Society Newsletter, vol 11 (2). June 2003.
HART, R.G. Rosemount: one of Kimberley's vanished houses. Now and Then - Historical Society Newsletter, vol 12 (1). March 2004.
MNGQOLO, S. 2003. Oral history as a tool for eductaors and learners. www.sahistory.org.za/pages/sources/oral-history-sephai.htm
MORRIS, D. 2003. Cederberg rock art. Review of The Mantis, the Eland and the Hunter (Parkington). The Digging Stick 20(2):14.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Conference report: from tools to symbols, from early hominids to modern humans. The Digging Stick 20(1):12.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Archaeology in the classroom: with notes on rock art and other aspects of Northern Cape archaeology. Booklet for teachers’ workshop, McGregor Museum, Kimberley.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Olive Grant Vigne McIntyre (1899-1990): Doyenne of the arts. Now and Then 12(1):2-4.
SWANEPOEL, S. 2003. Greenpoint suburb. This is Frances Baard: an Educational Course compiled by Steve Lunderstedt. Kimberley.
CONFERENCE PAPERS & CONFERENCE POSTERS
JACOBSON, L. & VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, W.A. 2003. The pre-colonial pottery provenancing project. Paper presented to the Fifth Biennial Conference of the Society of South African Geographers, Bloemfontein, 22nd - 23rd September 2003.
JACOBSON, L., LOOCK, J.C., VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, W.A., HUFFMAN, T. & DREYER, J. 2003. Vitrified dung - some recent results. Paper presented to the XV Biennial Conference of the South African Society for Quaternary Research, Johannesburg, 30 March - 02 April 2003.
JACOBSON, L. 2003. Geochemistry and archaeology: a creative bond. Keynote address presented to the Student Geocongress, Bloemfontein, 25-27 June 2003.
JACOBSON, L., VAN DER WESTHUIZEN, W.A. & HUFFMAN, T. 2003. Regional exchange patterns at Mapungubwe: the evidence from ceramic provenancing. Paper presented to the Biennial Conference of the South African Historical Society, Bloemfontein, 29 June - 1 July 2003.
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MORRIS, D. 2003. Rock art as source and resource: research and responsibility towards education, heritage and tourism. Paper presented at South African Historical Society conference, Bloemfontein.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Rock engravings in the Northern Cape, South Africa: a heritage resource in research and development. Paper presented at Khoe and San Research and Development Conference, Gaborone, Botswana.
LECTURES
ALLEN, V. "Oral History". A paper delivered at the History Teachers Conference held at The McGregor Museum, Saturday, 17 May 2003.
ALLEN, V. "Early Kimberley". A paper delivered during the Cultures and Vultures Week at the Moth Centre, Friday, 13 November 2003.
ANDERSON, T. Cures from the Plant World. Paper delivered during Cultures and Vultures week, WHAG, November 2003.
MORRIS, D. 2004. Rock art in the Karoo. Paper invited as part of series on Southern African rock art, University of Cape Town Summer School, Jan 2004.
PUBLICATIONS IN PRESS
ANDERSON, M.D., ANDERSON, T.A. & SPOTTISWOOD, C. 2004. Witsand - White Mirage in the Red Kalahari Sand Desert. Africa Geographic.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. A Beginner’s Guide to the Plants of Kimberley and surrounds, with special reference to Magersfontein Part 1. McGregor Museum, Kimberley & ShareNet.
ANDERSON, T.A. (ed.) 2004. A Beginner’s Guide to the Animals of Kimberley and surrounds, with special reference to Magersfontein, Part 2. McGregor Museum, Kimberley & ShareNet.
KRUGER, O., RADFORD, A. N., ANDERSON, C. & LIVERSIDGE, R. (2004) Successful sons or superior daughters: sex-ratio variation in springbok. Proc. R. Soc. Lond. 271: in press.
EDITORSHIPS
ANDERSON, T.A. (ed.) McGregor News. Newsletter of the McGregor Museum, Jan - Dec 2003.
HART, R.G. (ed). Now and Then- Newsletter of the Historical Society of Kimberley and the Northern Cape. Vol 11 (2 and 3) and Vol 12 (1).
WILSON, B.Y. Griqua Gnus 333 – 343. Newsletter of the Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa (Northern Cape Region).
UNPUBLISHED REPORTS
ANDERSON, T.A. 2003. Scoping report: botanical survey of three proposed routes for 22 kV powerlines, Klipkop-Wessels and associated network, Askham. ESKOM.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2003. Taung Skull Heritage Site: vegetation report. Bapela, Cave & Klapwijk & SAHRA North-West Province.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. Vegetation Report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Kgalagadi District Municipality. Scientific report.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. Vegetation Report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Kgalagadi District Municipality: Ga-Segonyana. Scientific report.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. Vegetation Report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Kgalagadi District Municipality: Gamagara. Scientific report.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. Vegetation Report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Kgalagadi District Municipality: Moshaweng. Scientific report.
ANDERSON, T.A. 2004. Vegetation Report for the Strategic Environmental Assessment, Kgalagadi District Municipality: NCDMACB1. Scientific report.
ANDERSON, P.C. 2003. Reproduction, age structure and condition of Benfontein springbok (May-Jul 2003). Internal Report XIX - De Beers Consolidated Mines Ecology Division). 12 pp.
ANDERSON, P.C. 2003. Taung Skull Heritage Site – Zoology Phase 1 report. 2pp.
ANDERSON, P.C. & WILSON, B.Y. 2003. The possible impact of iron ore mining activities by Sishen Iron Ore Company on the vertebrate fauna at various proposed sites near Kathu, Northern Cape Province, South Africa - An Ecological Impact Assessment. 19pp.
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ANDERSON, P.C. 2004. The vertebrate component (Mammalifauna, Avifauna and Herpetofauna) of Kareevlei Wes Plase BK, Barkly West District, Northern Cape Province – An Ecological Impact Assessment. 14pp
ANDERSON, P.C. 2004. Voorlopige ekologiese evaluasie: Lilydale Fly Fishing & Game Lodge. 5pp.
ANDERSON, P.C. 2004. Installation of an underground fuel tank at the Kimberley Macsteel trading premises (Erf 0021): Possible environmental impact. An Ecological Impact Assessment. 16pp.
ANDERSON, P.C. & WILSON, B.Y. 2004 – Vertebrate survey: Kgalagadi District Municipality – An Ecological Impact Assessment. 21pp.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Report on an archaeological impact assessment for H.C. van Wyk Diamonds, Holpan and Klipdam, Northern Cape.
MORRIS, D. 2003. An archaeological impact assessment at Newlands, Northern Cape.
MORRIS, D. 2003. An archaeological impact assessment: Rietputs 15, Windsorton.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Salvage and investigation of graves disturbed by the Sol Plaatje Municipality outside Gladstone Cemetery, Kimberley: Second interim report (with appended archival report by S. Swanepoel).
MORRIS, D. 2003. Assessment of archaeological salvage requirements at ‘Diamond Kopje’, Vogelstruis Pan, Rooipoort.
MORRIS, D. 2003. Archaeological impact assessment along the Vaal River frontage at Sydney-on-Vaal.
MORRIS, D. & VOIGT, E.A. 2003. Graves disturbed outside Gladstone Cemetery, Kimberley: urgent action required in terms of the National Heritage Resources Act.
SWANEPOEL, S., ALLEN, V., MNGQOLO, S., FOUCHE, M., 2004. Galeshewe History Project. Commissioned by the Sol Plaatje Muncipality.
SWANEPOEL, S. 2003. Archival Report on Gladstone Cemetery. Salvage and investigation of graves disturbed by the Sol Plaatje Municipality outside Gladstone Cemetery, Kimberley Interim Report.
VAN RYNEVELD, K. & MORRIS, D. 2003. Archaeological salvage work at ‘Diamond Kopje’, Vogelstruis Pan, Rooipoort.
PRESS RELEASES
Beryl was once more responsible for the compilation and distribution of a number of Museum and Wildlife Society related press releases.
RESEARCH ASSOCIATES
BIRD, M.I., FIFIELD, L.K., SANTOS, G.M., BEAUMONT, P.B., ZHOU, Y., DI TADA, M.I. & HANSLADEN, P.A. 2003. Radiocarbon dating from 40-60 ka at Border Cave, South Africa. Quaternary Science Reviews 22:943-947.
GRUN, R., BEAUMONT, P.B., TOBIAS, P.V. & EGGINS, S. 2003. On the age of Border cave 5 human mandible. Journal of Human Evolution 45:155-167.
GUTZMER, J., BANKS D.A., LUDERS, V., HOEFS, J., BEUKES, N.J. & VON BEZING, K.L. 2003. Ancient sub-seafloor alteration of basaltic andesites of the Ongeluk Formation, South Africa: implications for the chemistry of Paleoproterozoic seawater. Chemical Geology 201:37-53.
Research Associates of the McGregor MuseumMr Mark Anderson, Miss Fiona Barbour, Mr Peter Beaumont,
Mr Hennie Erasmus, Dr Alex Sliwa, Mr Terry Smale, Dr André van Rooyen, Mrs Elizabeth Voigt, Dr Ludi von Bezing, Dr Linda Waldman.
Dr Richard Liversidge, who was a Research Associate, died in September 2003.
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Arid Zone Ecology Forum conference, Kathu, August 2003, T. Anderson (presented, chair of session, assisted with organisation). Biennial Conference of the South African Historical Society, Bloemfontein, July 2003. L. Jacobson (presented), D. Morris (presented).Community-based Conservation Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson. Cultures and Vultures Week: Kimberley. November 2003: B. Carlstein, D. Morris, K. van Ryneveld, R. Hart, S. Mngqolo, T. Anderson (all presented papers)Development Planning Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, July 2003, T. Anderson.Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Planning, William Humphreys Art Gallery, September 2003. B Carlstein, M. Fouche, M. Seetelo, R. Hart, S. Swanepoel.Environmental Impact Assessment Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson.Environmental Management for Tourism Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson.Environmental Sustainability Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, July 2003, T. Anderson. Fifth Biennial Conference of the Society of South African Geographers, Bloemfontein, September 2003. L. Jacobson (presented).History in Education Workshop: McGregor Museum, May 2003, R. Hart (presentation), B. Carlstein (presentation), D. Morris (presentation), K. van Ryneveld (presentation).Human remains workshop, Cape Town, November 2003, D. Morris.Integrated Pest Management Workshop: William Humphreys Art Gallery. Kimberley, September 2003: B. Carlstein, M. Fouche, R. Hart, S. Swanepoel.Khoe and San Research and Development, Gaborone, September 2003, L. Mogami, D. Morris (presented paper).Medicinal Plant Workshop, Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, Environment and Conservation, Kimberley, November 2003, T. Anderson. Northern Cape State of the Environment Report Workshops, CSIR, Kimberley, December 2003 & January 2004, T. Anderson, D. Morris.Oral History Workshop. Hoffe Park, Kimberley, October 20-21 2003. S. Mngqolo (presented).Project Management for Environmental Management Systems Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, July 2003, T. Anderson.Public Participation Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson.Social Impact Assessment Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson.Special Pensions Research Workshop. Bloemfontein , October 2003. S. Mngqolo.Specimen Database upgrade training course, National Botanical Institute, Pretoria, June 2003, A. van Heerden.Student Geocongress, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, June 2003. L. Jacobson (keynote address). Veld & Game Management Course, Centre for Environmental Management, University of the Free State, February 2004, T. Anderson. World Assembly of International Council on Monuments and Sites, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, October 2003. C. Fortune, R. GreenWorkshop: Khoisan Research Project, University of the Free State, 19 January 2004. L. Jacobson XV Biennial Conference of the South African Society for Quaternary Research, Johannesburg, 30 March - 02 April 2003. L. Jacobson (presented), K. van Ryneveld (presented).
CONFERENCES &WORKSHOPS ATTENDED21
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DONORS ANDACKNOWLEDGEMENTS22
Africa 2009; Africa Institute of South Africa; Mr Albert Abdol; Mrs Jill Adams; Mrs Vida Allen; Mr Mark Anderson; Mrs T Anderson; Dr Margaret Avery; Miss Fiona M Barbour; Mr John Bassey; The Revd Ann Bazzard; Mr Peter Beaumont; Adv Justice Bekebeke; Mr Ben Benade; Dr Hugo Bezuidenhout; Mr Duan Biggs; Mrs V Birch; Mr Geoff Blundell; Bolus Herbarium; Mr Roger Bosch; Mr James Brink; Prof Michael Chazan; Ms Liz Crossley & Dr Jens-Peter Fessen; Annette Coetzee; Mr Michael Cope & Ms Julia Martin; Dr Janette Deacon; De Beers Archives; De Beers Chairman’s Fund; De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd; Mrs H. Delport; Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, Environment & Conservation; Department of Sport, Arts and Culture; Mr Abraham de Wee; Ms Carole de Wet; Diamond Fields Advertiser; Mr Vincent Dinku; Ms Sandra Dodd; Mr J.P. Driver-Jowitt; Mitch Duck; EE Carter Trust; Eko-Impak; Mr Willem Eland; Mrs A Emery; ESKOM; Estate Oliver Ashe; First Church of Christ Scientist, Kimberley; Mr Colin Fortune; Mev Fourie; Frances Baard District Municipality; Friends of the McGregor Museum; Ga-Segonyana Municipality; Governmont of Norway; Dr Rainer Grun; Dr Simon Hall; Sudré Havenga (Bloemfontein National Museum); Ms Daphne Hartney; Dr Zoe Henderson; Mr F. Higgo; Historical Society, Kimberley; Mr Bellin Hoffman; Ms Liora Horwitz; Prof Anthony Humphreys; Iziko Museums; Leon Jacobson; Ms Jane Joubert; Mr Joey Kers; Kgalagadi District Municipality; Keep Kimberley Clean Share-Net; Kimberley Africana Library; Kimberley Horticultural Society; Hospital Works Committee; Mr & Mrs Peter & Lyn Klemp; Mrs Maureen Klemp; Johanet Kriel; Ms Tanja Kruger; Kumba Resources: Sishen Mine; Mrs Mary Lange; Mrs Mary Leslie; Dr Richard Liversidge and Mrs V Liversidge; Marie Lodewyk; Steve Lunderstedt; Ms Judy Macguire; Ds Mario Mahongo; Dr J McNabb; Dr Tim Maggs; Mrs Elna Marais; Mr Louis Mallett; Boris Mashkatsen; MG Car Club; Mr Sephai Mngqolo; Mr George Gauta Mokgoro; Prof Alan Morris; Mr Michael Morris; Mr Neville Motlhabakwe; Mr Les Moult; Prof. Sue Milton; Mr Koot Msawula; Ms Nomalinde Msuthu; Mr Jan Naborn; National Herbarium (PRE) National Botanical Institute; National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund; National Research Foundation; National Treasury (Special Pensions); Mr Bafana Ndebele; Mrs SM Nieuwoudt; Noordkaap; Northern Cape Rock Art Trust; Mr Tomsen Nore; Cathy O’ Dowd; Inspector V Oliphant (SAPS); Mr Sven Ouzman; Prof John Parkington; Ms Isabelle Parsons; Ms Jacqueline Phetheni; Philo Films; Mrs Anne Pretorius; QUADRU; Dr Moses R. Ralinala; The Revd Maureen Reay; Mr Folke Richardt; Mrs M E Rowe; Mr Kobus Saaiman; Mr Gonen Sharon; SATV News; Prof. K Schlosser; Mrs Frances Schwabe; Mr Gert Scholtz; Mr Thapelo Sekonyane; Mr Stephen Seleku; Mrs Mitah Seperepere; Mr V. Skinner; Dr Terry Smale; Dr Ben Smith; Sol Plaatje Educational Trust; Sol Plaatje Municipality; Sol Plaatje Municipality: Town Planning; South African Heritage Resources Agency; South African Archaeological Society; South African San Institute; Southern African Botanical Network (SABONET); Stellenbosch Farmer’s Winery; Supermix Pty Ltd.; Ms Sunet Swanepoel; Mr Hennie Swart; Mr Ted Sweetman; Mrs Van den Heever; Ms Annemarie van Heerden; Mr & Mrs Maarten van Hoek; Mrs F van Niekerk; Mr Johann van Schalkwyk; Mr Barend van Wyk; Johan van Zyl (Bloemfontein Military Museum); Prof Wallace van Zyl; Mr Jan Viljoen; Mrs Elizabeth A. Voigt; Mrs Eugenia Voigt; Mrs F M Voigt; Volksblad; Mr Alf Waddington; Mr Brian Waddington; Mrs Bunny Waddington; Dr Linda Waldman; Mrs A. Warner; Dr Lita Webley; Ms Lindsay Weiss; Wildlife & Environment Society of South Africa, Northern Cape Region; William Humphreys Art Gallery; Mr C. Willis; Mr Petrus
Wilson; Wonderwerk Cave Committee; World Bank; Mr Royden Yates; Zoological Society of Cincinnatti.
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THE McGREGOR MUSEUM COMPLEX
McGregor Museum (Sanatorium),Atlas Street
Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 17:00Sundays 14:00 - 17:00Public Holidays 10:00 - 17:00
Alexander McGregor MemorialMuseum, Chapel Street
Monday - Friday 09:00 - 17:00Saturday & Sunday Closed
Duggan-Cronin Gallery,Egerton Road
Opening hours as for McGregor Museum, Atlas Street, but closed 13:00 - 14:00 on Sat-urdays.
Rudd House and Dunluce
Two of Kimberley's historical homes. Visits with guides only, arranged at the McGregor Museum. Weekdays only.Tel. 053-8392700
Memorial to Pioneers of Aviation
3,5 km from airport on General van der Spuy Drive. Monday - Saturday 09:00 - 17:00Sunday 14:00 - 17:00Public Holidays 10:00 - 17:00
Magersfontein Battlefield andBurgher Monument
31,5 km on the road to Modder River via the airport. The observation post overlooks the battlefield, the Burgher trenches and several monuments.Open daily 08:00 - 17:00
Wonderwerk Cave
40 km from Daniëlskuil on main road to Kuru-man. Signposted at turn-off. Major archaeo-logical site with interpretive displays. Refresh-ments and overnight facilities.Tel: (053) 3840680
Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Tourist Centre and Nooitgedacht Site
14 km on Barkly West road. Rock engravings, visitor centre, displays, film, guided tours and refreshments.Tuesdays-Sundays 10:00 - 17:00Tel: (053) 8337069
Marry Moffat Museum,Griquatown, Main Road
Open daily 08:00 - 17:00Tel. (053) 3430180
All our city museums are closed on Good Friday and Christmas Day
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