Swellendam Heritage Association to erect Swellendam family crests

The Swellendam Heritage Association (SHA) has commenced on a project to have Swellendam family crests displayed on metal hoardings attached to the lampposts along the west end of Voortrekker Street. The Swellendam Municipality has approved a pilot project in this respect. The pilot project saw the erection of four hoardings displaying eight family crests (two crests, one on each side of a hoarding). The purpose of the pilot project is to gauge public opinion with regard to heritage, inclusivity and aesthetic value before commencing with the full project. Examples of these family crests in the pilot project can now be viewed on the lampposts opposite Moolmanshof.

SHA wants this to be a Swellendam community project. All families, whether with historic ties, who currently reside in or are involved in Swellendam are asked to be part of this project.

This picturesque town is unique in terms of situation, landscape and natural scenery. Her history is illustrious and diverse, created and formed through contributions of all ethnic, social and administrative role-players. So special is she that Dr. Joan Prins, a Swellendammer of old, once referred to her as ”The Swellendam Mixed Grill”. SHA, through this project, aims to give recognition to those past or present within the greater Swellendam community.

The pilot project will continue for the balance of this year and next year, if all goes according to plan, a huge effort will go into filling the western end of the main street with family crests.

SHA would like to record its thanks to the municipality for approval of the pilot phase of the project, support and the erection of the hoardings. The association’s thanks also goes to the participants in the project and Alex Hayn of Atelier Studio for design assistance. Francois and Shaun from Lotz Signs for the manufacture of the Crest Boards. Johan van Schalkwyk for the manufacture of the frames and assisting Francois du Rand and Frik Erasmus and their team from the municipality for the mounting of the crests. Without their participation SHA could not have commenced the project. The association is convinced that this project will make a unique contribution to the distinction of the town.

All families who would like to participate or would like to give recognition to an old Swellendam family, can submit the names and their contribution to the association. Families who do not possess an existing family crest will be assisted to create a crest using the background of their family’s history. It would also be appreciated if contributors would sponsor families who may need assistance financially as a way of possibly repaying such a family or any other personal reason.

The main project will be launched in January 2020 so interested parties are invited to order their family’s crest before then.

For more information visit www.swellendamheritage.org.za or email info@swellendamheritage.org.za.