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Heidelberg Heritage Association, Old Prison, corner of Jordaan and Ueckermann Streets, Heidelburg (2026)

02/10/2026

The Art of War

Jewelry and other keepsakes made by Anglo-Boer War prisoners of war (1899-1902) are a rare form of art crafted by captive Boers held in overseas camps on islands like St. Helena, Bermuda, and Ceylon, as well as in India and local camps.
Coins – Prisoners frequently used ZAR silver coins, such as two-shillings or half-crown pieces, hand-piercing, carving, or melting them down to create intricate fobs, Maltese cross pendants and brooches.
Bone & Horn – Leftover ration bones and animal bones were carved into detailed rings, necklaces, and watch chains, often paired with horsehair or metal links.
Local Woods – In camps like Bermuda, prisoners carved local cedar into unique bracelets and keepsakes.
Working with crude, self-fashioned tools and small knives, they produced these items to pass the time, earn money for camp essentials like to***co, or create tokens of residence and longing for home.

One such prisoner of war was Stefanus Gerhardus Schoeman.

Stefanus was born in Potchefstroom on the 17 October 1869 to Wilhelmus Hendrikus and Regina Catharina. They farmed on Nooitgedacht in the district Potchefstroom. On the 29 August 1899, Stefanus married Anna Philippina Marx in Vredefort.
Six months later, on the 27 February 1900, Stephanus, who was part of the Boer Forces, was captured at Paardeberg. Stephanus was sent to St. Helena, where he was kept as a prisoner of war for the next two years.

Whilst on St. Helena, Stephanus carved intricate rings and brooches out of animal bone, most with the initials of his bride, Anna. Others had his initials on as well as St.Helena, and POW (Prisoner Of War).

After his release and return to the farm Nooitgedacht, Stefanus and Anna went on to have six children:
Johannes Engelbertus
Stefanus Gerhardus
Wilhelmus Hendrikus
Susanna Maria
Regina Catharina
Marthinus Gerhardus

Anna passed away on Saturday, 18 January 1941 at Nooigedacht, age 64. Stefanus passed away on the 19 November 1961. Both were buried at Nooitgedacht, Potchefstroom.

The carved keepsakes were donated by the family to the Heidelberg Heritage Association.

25/09/2026

Blue Plaque No. 87 – The Union Bioscope
The Heidelberg Heritage Association proudly presents its latest Blue Plaque, commemorating The Union Bioscope in Jacobs Street, Heidelberg.
Originally constructed as a roller-skating venue, the building opened its doors on 14 May 1910 as The Union Skating Rink. Owned by Mr. W.W. Fraser, who was also the host of the Grand Hotel at the time, the skating rink was formally opened by the Mayor of Heidelberg.
In 1911, the venue was renamed The Union Rink and Bioscope, following the introduction of a bioscope where audiences could enjoy the silent films of the era. The term “bioscope”, derived from Greek words meaning “a view of life,” became the familiar South African term for a cinema throughout much of the 20th century. During the golden age of local cinema, almost every rural and mining town had its own bioscope, which became an important centre of entertainment and community life.
By 1913, the roller-skating rink had ceased operations, and the building became known simply as The Union Bioscope. It soon established itself as a popular social and entertainment hub, attracting schoolchildren, members of the local community and students from the nearby Heidelberg Teachers’ Training College.
During the 1930s, the façade was modernised in the fashionable Art Deco architectural style, reflecting the changing character of architecture at the time. This period also saw the introduction of “talkies” — motion pictures incorporating synchronised dialogue and sound — marking a significant new era in the history of film.
In the 1940s, ownership of the Union Bioscope passed from Major Whelan to Anthony Kalil. Anthony “Tony” Kalil (1912–2000) was a well-known Heidelberg resident. Born in Lebanon, he came to Heidelberg with his parents in 1920, and the family lived in the house directly opposite the Union Bioscope.
The arrival of national television broadcasts in 1976 had a profound impact on cinemas throughout South Africa, resulting in declining cinema attendance. The Union Bioscope eventually closed its doors permanently in the early 1980s, bringing to an end more than seven decades of entertainment and community life within its walls.
Following its closure, the historic building served a variety of commercial purposes over the ensuing decades. Recognising the importance of preserving Heidelberg's architectural and social heritage, the current owners have undertaken the careful upgrading of the building while respecting its historical character.
Today, the building has entered a new chapter with the opening of The Daily Coffee Café, giving this much-loved Heidelberg landmark a renewed purpose and a new lease on life.
The Heidelberg Heritage Association is proud to recognise and preserve the history of the Union Bioscope through Blue Plaque No. 87, ensuring that the stories, memories and significance of this historic building remain part of Heidelberg’s heritage for generations to come.
Blue Plaque No. 87 was generously donated by Albert Grobler.

17/09/2026

DISCOVER HEIDELBERG’S HIDDEN HISTORY
Heritage Day – 24 September 2026
But what does heritage mean?
Heritage is more than old buildings, monuments and dates in a history book.
Heritage is the stories of the people who came before us, the places where they lived and worked, the traditions they created, the struggles they faced, the achievements they left behind, and the memories passed from one generation to the next.
It is the physical places we can still see — and the stories that might otherwise be forgotten.
Heritage connects us to where we come from and helps us understand the community we are part of today.
This Heritage Day, the Suikerbosrand Shellhole together with the Heidelberg Heritage Association invites you to take a journey into our town's past and discover some of the stories that make Heidelberg special.
🕘 09:00 – Old Jail opens
📍 59 Jordaan Street
🕙 10:00 – Heidelberg Through History
Join local historian Tony Burisch on a fascinating visual journey through Heidelberg's rich history.
👻 11:00 – History Ghost Whisper Tour
Explore the historic jail cells with Evert Pstorius, and hear the stories and tales connected to this remarkable building.
🕛 12:00 – Kloof Cemetery Tour
Continue the journey with a guided tour by Tony Burisch of the historic Kloof Cemetery, situated at the end of Fenter Street, and discover more about the people who form part of Heidelberg's story.
COME AND DISCOVER THE STORIES BEHIND OUR TOWN
Whether you have lived in Heidelberg all your life, recently made it your home, or are simply fascinated by local history, there is always another story waiting to be discovered.
Bring your family. Bring a friend. Bring your curiosity.

11/09/2026

Squadron Leader Johannes “Chris” le Roux: Heidelberg’s Forgotten Flying Ace
Among the many brave South Africans who served during the Second World War, few achieved the distinction and reputation of Squadron Leader Johannes Jacobus “Chris” le Roux. A gifted fighter pilot, respected leader, and decorated war hero, le Roux became one of the Royal Air Force’s most successful South African-born aces, earning the rare distinction of the Distinguished Flying Cross and two Bars.
Born on 12 April 1920 in Heidelberg, Transvaal, South Africa, Johannes le Roux grew up in Springs and developed an early ambition to fly. His dream of joining the South African Air Force was initially thwarted when he was rejected due to limited vacancies. Undeterred, he worked in the mining industry to save enough money to travel to the United Kingdom. In February 1939, at just nineteen years old, he enlisted in the Royal Air Force.
When the Second World War broke out later that year, le Roux was still undergoing training. By May 1940 he had been posted to No. 85 Squadron, flying Hawker Hurricanes during the desperate fighting of the Battle of France. During the campaign he was wounded and hospitalised, but his determination remained unshaken. After recovering, he spent several months instructing new pilots before returning to operational flying in 1941 with No. 91 Squadron.
Flying the legendary Supermarine Spitfire, le Roux quickly established himself as a formidable combat pilot. Operating from southern England, he took part in offensive missions over occupied Europe, engaging enemy aircraft and attacking strategic targets. Throughout 1941 he achieved a series of aerial victories against German Messerschmitt Bf 109 fighters and other enemy aircraft. His courage, skill, and relentless commitment earned him the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in October 1941.
The official citation praised his participation in over 200 operational sorties, noting both his success in aerial combat and his valuable reconnaissance and ground-attack missions. Yet le Roux was far from finished. By the end of 1942 he had added several more victories to his record, including the destruction of Focke-Wulf Fw 190 fighters. His continued success earned him a Bar to his DFC, a recognition awarded for further acts of gallantry while already holding the decoration.
In early 1943, le Roux was posted to North Africa, joining No. 111 Squadron during the Tunisian Campaign. Operating in the harsh conditions of the North African theatre, he continued to distinguish himself in combat. His leadership qualities soon became evident, and he was appointed commander of the squadron. Under his command, the unit continued to achieve success against Axis forces, while le Roux personally added more victories to his growing tally. His exceptional service earned him a second Bar to the Distinguished Flying Cross, placing him among a very select group of RAF pilots.
By mid-1944, following the Allied invasion of Normandy, le Roux returned to Europe and assumed command of No. 602 Squadron. The squadron flew patrols over advancing Allied forces and conducted dangerous ground-attack missions against German targets. During the Normandy campaign he continued to demonstrate his remarkable flying skills, shooting down several enemy aircraft in rapid succession.
One of the most intriguing episodes associated with le Roux occurred on 17 July 1944. During a sortie over Normandy, he attacked a German staff car after engaging enemy aircraft. Historians believe this vehicle may have been carrying Field Marshal Erwin Rommel, Germany’s senior commander in the region. The attack resulted in a crash that seriously injured Rommel, forcing him to relinquish command. Although other Allied pilots have also been credited with the attack, le Roux remains one of the leading candidates responsible for the action that removed one of Germany’s most respected military leaders from the battlefield.
Despite his extraordinary achievements, fate would cut his life tragically short. On 29 August 1944, while flying his Spitfire back to England, poor weather forced him to abort an initial attempt. Later that day he took off again but never reached his destination. His aircraft disappeared, and he was officially reported missing. At just twenty-four years of age, South Africa had lost one of its finest wartime aviators.
Squadron Leader Johannes “Chris” le Roux is credited with destroying eighteen German aircraft, with two additional probable victories and eight damaged enemy aircraft. His combat record places him among the most successful South African fighter pilots of the Second World War. Significantly, he was one of only two South Africans to be awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and two Bars.
Having no known grave, his memory is preserved on the Air Forces Memorial near Egham in Surrey, England, where the names of Commonwealth airmen with no known resting place are honoured. He was survived by his wife and two children.
Today, Johannes le Roux’s story stands as a testament to courage, perseverance, and service beyond self. From a young man rejected by his own country’s air force to one of the RAF’s most decorated fighter aces, his legacy remains an inspiring chapter in both South African and Allied military history.

References:
Cwgc.org/stories
Warriorofthesky.co.za
London Gazette 1940; 1941; 1943
Military History Journal Vol 1 No4 June 1969
Rommel Under Attack by Lance Russwurm
South African War Graves Project
South African History Journal Vol 1 No5 Dec 1969
The Fighter Aces Of The RAF pg138
Traces of War by JJ Le Roux
Royal Air Force Photographer FOA

03/09/2026

Plaque No. 86
The Heidelberg Heritage Association unveiled Plaque No. 86 at Heidelberg Town Hall.

The site was once known as Market Square. Located in the centre of town, the square served as a marketplace where farmers sold their produce and livestock. It was also used for public addresses and political announcements. Farmers would camp in their wagons on Market Square when attending church for communion. One significant announcement made at the square was the death sentence handed down to Salmon van As, who was sentenced to death by firing squad in 1902.

Heidelberg Town Hall was designed by renowned South African architect Gerard Moerdyk, who also designed the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria. The sandstone building was completed in June 1939. Its cornerstones were laid by D. J. M. Jordaan, Heidelberg’s mayor at the time, and General J. J. Pienaar, Administrator of the Transvaal.

The globe situated in the centre of the fishpond in front of the Town Hall was manufactured and presented to Heidelberg by Italian prisoners of war. During World War II, South Africa housed over 100,000 Italian prisoners of war (POWs), with the vast majority stationed at the massive Zonderwater camp near Cullinan in Transvaal.

The buffalo head adorning the building resembles the granite buffalo head at the Voortrekker Monument. Buffalo are regarded as among the most dangerous and defensive animals in the animal kingdom. The buffalo head therefore symbolizes the defence of Heidelberg against external threats.

In 1954, a monument commemorating the Driemanskap (Triumvirate) of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek was unveiled at the Town Hall. The monument consisted of a spire bearing busts of Paul Kruger, Marthinus Pretorius, and Piet Joubert, who governed the ZAR from Heidelberg during 1880 to 1883. Although the busts have since been removed, the spire remains.

On 16 December 1980, Prime Minister P. W. Botha unveiled a commemorative plaque recognising Heidelberg’s former status as the capital of the Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek a century earlier.

This plaque was sponsored by Brian Ge**er.

26/08/2026

Blue Plaque No 85
The Heidelberg Heritage Association unveiled the heritage blue plaque #85 commemorating the site of the former Black Concentration Camp Cemetery in Heidelberg.
The cemetery is situation in the area directly behind the Heidelberg Mall. The location of the cemetery was rediscovered in June 1999 by Eric van den Berg and Johan Strauss, following their research into a 1905 map which indicated the location of the burial site.
During their investigation, van den Berg and Strauss identified approximately 30 graves, providing important physical evidence of the former concentration camp cemetery. Their discovery also established that the Black Concentration Camp was located very close to the site of the former White Concentration Camp.
The Heidelberg Concentration Camps.
During the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), both Black and White concentration camps were established by the British authorities. The camps became increasingly overcrowded as thousands of men, women and children were removed from their homes and placed in camps as part of the British military strategy to restrict support for the Boer forces.
The conditions experienced by the Black and White camp residents differed considerably. While White concentration camp residents received official rations, Black camp residents generally did not receive the same level of provision and were expected to provide for many of their own needs. According to a SA History article, this was deliberately done by the British in order to force the able-bodied camp residents to work for them. Either in growing crops for the troops, dig trenches or be wagon drivers. Black residents were also used as combatants by the British, especially as scouts to track down Boer commandoes and armed block house guards. These residents who could work, could exchange labor for food or buy mealie meal at a cheaper price.
The farms Emmasdale and Klippoortje were annexed by the British during the war. Klippoortje was utilized for the concentration camps as well as land worked by Black South Africans for the British for crops.
The Heidelberg Black Concentration Camp was one of the larger camps of its kind, with more that 2’300 people held there for much of the Anglo-Boer War. As in most concentration camps, living conditions were extremely poor, and inadequate food, sanitation and medical care contributed to widespread illness and loss of life.
A particularly devastating measles epidemic resulted in many deaths. Records indicate that 150 people died in Heidelberg Black Concentration Camp, including 121 children.
The camp was officially closed on 25 October 1902, several months after the conclusion of the Anglo-Boer War.
Historical records indicate that there were reportedly four Black Concentration Camps in the wider Heidelberg district during the Anglo-Boer War: Heidelberg, Nigel, Balfour and Greylingstad.
The unveiling of this blue plaque serves as an important reminder of a largely overlooked chapter in Heidelberg’s history and honors men, women and especially children who lost their lives in the camp.
The Heidelberg Heritage Association is proud to preserve and share this history so that future generations can learn about the experiences of all communities affected by the Anglo-Boer War.
The sponsor of the heritage plaque was MOTHS Suikerbosrand Shellhole.

18/08/2026

On this day in Heidelberg, 117 years ago,
A winter wonderland was experienced.

18/08/2026

Blue Plaque Honours Heidelberg's Historic Grand Hotel 🔵
The Heidelberg Heritage Association is proud to unveil Blue Plaque No. 84, commemorating one of Heidelberg's most iconic landmarks – The Grand Hotel.
Originally built in 1896 as the President Hotel, the establishment was later renamed the Grand Hotel. In the 1930s, the original Victorian building was demolished and replaced with the striking Art Deco structure that many residents still remember. It is believed that the new building may have been designed by renowned architect Gerard Moerdyk, while proudly retaining the name Grand Hotel.
The hotel was a focal point of Heidelberg's social life, offering:
🍷 Two bars
🎱 A billiard room
🛋️ A lounge
🍽️ A dining room
🛏️ 33 guest rooms
During the 1940s and 1950s, it was owned and managed by Mr. and Mrs. Shevel, becoming a favourite gathering place for locals and travellers alike.
The building became run down and remained vacant for many years. This was soon remedied by the opening of the Heidelberg Crown Hotel and Grill King restaurant. Through thoughtful architectural considerations, this ‘Grand Dame’ was restored to its original glory.
Our sincere thanks to Albert Grobler, who sponsored Blue Plaque No. 84, helping to preserve and share Heidelberg's rich heritage for future generations.

13/08/2026

Plaque No 83 – Barclays Bank
The Heidelberg Heritage Association has presented plaque number 83 to a true architectural gem in Uekermann street. Built in 1890, the double-story building was known as the ‘Natal Chambers’, housing the Natal Bank Limited, the Government Surveyor and a local Attorney, Mr. G.K. Blyth, among others.
Natal Bank Limited was established in 1854 in Pietermaritzburg. In 1914, the Natal Bank was taken over by the National Bank.
In 1925 the National Bank was absorbed into Barclays Bank, tying the Heidelberg local branch directly into the wider British imperial banking strategy. Barclays Bank restructured operations in 1971, with the eventual withdrawal from South Africa in the late 1980’s. In later years Barclays bank returned to South Africa, partnering with Absa Bank.
In 1987 the building was taken over by First National Bank. FNB has since relocated to Heidelberg Mall.
Through over a century of occupation, this building has seen many changes and occupants. From the original double-story to a single story. The chiseled stone plinth, detailed plastered pillars and wooden window frames are still visible today.
Plaque #83 was sponsored by Property Professionals, who are the current occupants of the building.

04/08/2026

Blue Plaque No. 82 – Heidelberg Reformed Church
The Heidelberg Heritage Association is proud to unveil Blue Plaque No. 82, commemorating the second church building of the Heidelberg Reformed Church—a place that has stood at the heart of the congregation's spiritual and community life for more than seven decades.
The foundation stone of this beautiful church was laid on 9 December 1950 by Mrs. N.H. van der Walt, wife of Rev. N.H. van der Walt, who faithfully served the Heidelberg congregation for 22 years, from 1922 to 1947. At the time, the congregation was led by Rev. S.J. du Plessis, under whose ministry both the cornerstone ceremony and the official dedication of the new church took place.
Hidden within the cornerstone lies a fascinating time capsule. A specially made steel container, crafted by T. Kruger, was placed inside to preserve a snapshot of the congregation's history for future generations. Among its contents are a document bearing the signatures of the Church Council members, a written history of the congregation and the construction of the church, the 1950 Almanac of the Reformed Church, a daily newspaper, a church periodical, a set of contemporary coins, and the original plans of the church building.
Less than a year later, on Saturday, 27 October 1951, the completed church was officially inaugurated—an occasion of great celebration for the Heidelberg community.
Rev. S.J. du Plessis served the congregation from 21 June 1947 until 25 April 1953, before accepting a call to the Van der Byl Park congregation. He was succeeded by Rev. J.M. Opperman, who had previously worked in Argentina and ministered to the Heidelberg congregation from 24 October 1953 until 18 March 1956.
Another treasured feature of the church grounds is the historic Nagmaalshuisie (Communion House). Originally the property of Johannes van der Walt, father of Susara (Sarie) du Preez, it was sold to the Reformed Church by her son, Dries du Preez, on 23 May 1951.
Over the years, the Nagmaalshuisie has continued to serve the congregation in various ways. During the ministry of Rev. L.J. Buys (1970–1987), it was used for catechism classes. Additional classrooms were later built behind the house during the ministry of Dr. D. Breed (1987–1995). Today, one of these buildings has been lovingly converted into a museum, where documents, photographs and artefacts preserve the remarkable history and enduring legacy of the Heidelberg Reformed Church for future generations.
As we unveil Blue Plaque No. 82, we honour not only a historic building but also the generations of ministers, congregants and community members whose faith, dedication and stewardship have shaped this important landmark in Heidelberg's history.
The Heidelberg Heritage Association gratefully acknowledges Jaap Breed for sponsoring this Blue Plaque and helping to preserve the rich heritage of our town.

Heidelberg Heritage Association

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