The public are being invited to share their stories about Wynberg, including its places of historical significance, such as the Luxurama theatre built by the late Ronnie Quibell in 1963. Picture: Ian Landsberg/African News Agency (ANA)
Wynberg library is asking the public to share their memories of the suburb as part of an oral history project.
Last year, the Wynberg East Civic Association recorded histories of the Wynberg East community at Wynberg Rewind, a public event held at Muhammadeyah Primary School (“Looking back on Wynberg’s past”, Bulletin, September 8). Now a wider project is being undertaken by the Wynberg library and the provincial library services, under auspices of the Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport, to include all of the suburb, both upper and lower Wynberg.
Neville Adonis, the assistant director of provincial library services, said the department had started an oral history initiative eight years ago and the plan was to include 25 municipalities.
“To date we have completed 21 municipalities and have captured more than 450 stories/ interviews.”
The stories are available at the libraries and also uploaded onto a YouTube channel.
The goal of the oral history project is to capture and document the personal histories and experiences of communities in the province to contribute to social inclusion.
The intention was also to keep personal histories and experiences alive in communities so that future generations could celebrate their heritage and promote libraries as social hubs where communities could document their stories, said Mr Adonis.
Principal librarian Nadia Ismail said: “We would love to hear your stories. Tell us what you know about the history of the buildings and streets in Wynberg and share memories of your childhood in Wynberg.”
The library is looking for stories on culture, heritage, lifestyle, significant and cultural establishments, sports and sporting legends, farming, fauna and flora, food and beverages. A minimum of 15-30 minutes is recommended for a factual recording on any given topic.
If you want to take part, email Nadia.Ismail@capetown.gov.za by Friday March 10. Appointment dates for interviews will be scheduled for April at the library.