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SA National Society celebrates 110th Anniversary
SA National Society celebrates 110th Anniversary
History, heritage and conservation featured prominently at the 110th Commemorative Anniversary of the South African National Society (SANS) at Campbell Collections Durban. The event was themed 'Looking Ahead to Protect the Past.'
A Welcome Address by SANS President Ian Smith highlighted the objectives of SANS in preserving objects of historic interest and natural beauty.
Sinothi Thabethe (Director, Durban Local History Museums) shared insights into collaborative partnerships between SANS and the museums, particularly KwaMuhle Museum where SANS monthly meetings are held.
The principal speaker Jane Bedford shared memories about her Great Aunt Killie and the Campbell Family. Bedford's address included anecdotes about this amazing pioneer family and their vast contribution to the early days of Natal. The Campbells played a huge part in ensuring the present University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) was established. They were closely involved with the very first scheme to make the harbour entrance safer, but today are perhaps best remembered for the leading role in the sugar industry that still thrives well over a century later.
Robert King (SANS Honorary President) elaborated on the Society's efforts to honour Killie Campbell and her life's work through the establishment of a bursary fund in her name in 1979. In its 110th anniversary year the Society was delighted to provide bursaries to two candidates selected from 18 applicants.
Ian Smith presented bursary winner certificates to Nontobeko Ngubane and Steven Kotze. Ngubane's research examines the inequality of healthcare facilities provided by the Colonial government at three cottage hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal during the period 1880 to 1910.
Kotze's research focuses on hoes in Zulu society and metal production in what is today KZN. Zulu weapon production has been closely investigated but the metal work associated with hoes has implications for many aspects of Zulu society such as food production.
The Society looks forward to the 2017 bursary winners addressing the Society and to learning more about their respective research and findings.
Killie Campbell loved her garden. Her ashes were scattered beneath one of the lovely spreading Umkhuhlu trees. Many years ago, a birdbath was placed nearby but the years took their toll on this feature. As part of the celebrations the Society replaced the birdbath and added a bench nearby for good measure.
The Society is grateful to UKZN for its generosity in making the Campbell Collections venue available for the anniversary celebrations and as a mark of their long-term relationship.