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THE GREYTON POST
MAY /JUNE 2025
Guarding History: A Conversation with Judith Balie, Director of the Genadendal Museum
J udith, the Genadendal Mission Museum is steeped in rich history. Could you tell us a little about the origins of the museum? Of course! Genadendal Mission Museum holds a special place in South Africa’s history as the site of the first mission station, founded in 1737 by Georg Schmidt. It preserves the legacy of Genadendal’s role in education, music, and craftsmanship. The museum showcases artifacts reflecting the town’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, including the oldest fire engine in South Africa, the oldest knives made in Genadendal and a collection of historic tools, musical instruments, and household items. It’s truly a place where history comes alive. As Director, what does a typical day look like for you at the museum, and what are some of the challenges you face in this role? No two days are ever the same! My day often starts with overseeing the collections — ensuring that artifacts are properly preserved and catalogued. I also manage HR, oversee outreach and educational programs, and plan both temporary and permanent exhibitions. Marketing and promotion are key to attracting visitors and funding. A major challenge is securing resources to maintain and expand the museum’s offerings while balancing the need to keep our history accessible and engaging. But the reward of seeing visitors connect with our history makes it all worthwhile! The museum is a treasure trove of history and culture. Could you highlight one or two exhibits that particularly resonate with visitors and why? Absolutely! One of the standout exhibits is the Printing History Museum, which houses the historic Albion press. This press was used to print some of the first schoolbooks in South Africa and, at one point, was the only press in the country capable of printing music notation sheets. It’s incredible to see how this single machine shaped education and music in South Africa. Another favorite is the collection of handmade tools and musical instruments, which reflect the skill and creativity of Genadendal’s early community. Education is a vital part of any museum’s role. How does the Genadendal Museum engage with local schools or community groups to promote heritage awareness? Education is at the heart of what we do. With my postgraduate degree in Education, I’m passionate about creating meaningful learning experiences. We host interactive school programs where students can explore historical artifacts,
try their hand at traditional crafts, and learn about Genadendal’s place in South Africa’s history. Public and outreach programs also play a crucial role in connecting with the community. A recent example is the Human Rights Day outreach program co- hosted with Genadendal Child Welfare, where we cleaned up part of Kersiedorp and organized a fun day for the local kids. We also run an annual school speech competition tied to International Museums Day, where learners are encouraged to explore their connection to history and reflect on the role of museums in society. It’s rewarding to see how these programs foster a sense of pride and ownership in our shared heritage. Visitor experience is crucial. What unique activities or
experiences can visitors look forward to when they visit the museum? Visitors to the Genadendal Mission Museum can expect an enriching and hands-on experience. A must- see is the Old Watermill, where live demonstrations bring traditional milling techniques to life. Another highlight is the historic Pear Tree, which stands today from the same root system planted by Georg Schmidt — a living symbol of Genadendal’s enduring legacy. The Cottage Museum, one of the first guest houses in the interior, features a unique cow dung smeared floor, offering a rare glimpse into the humble beginnings of Genadendal. After the tour, visitors can relax at the Living Grace Nursery, where cultivated medicinal plants and our signature Honeybush Iced Tea — available at the Visitors Centre — provide a refreshing taste of Genadendal’s heritage. How has the museum adapted to the digital age? Are there virtual tours or online resources that remote enthusiasts can access? We’ve embraced the digital age with open arms! Our new virtual tour, available on our website, allows visitors to explore the museum from anywhere in the world. It’s a wonderful way to experience the history and stories of Genadendal even if you can’t visit in person. We’ve also launched a pilot research project to digitize our historical manuscripts and artifacts using AI technology. This means that rare and delicate items can be preserved and accessed by researchers and history lovers
globally, ensuring that Genadendal’s legacy lives on for future generations. Looking forward, are there any upcoming events or exhibitions at the Genadendal Museum that you are particularly excited about? We’re absolutely thrilled about the upcoming Afrikaans 100 Festival and commemorative reading on 9 May 2025 in the Genadendal Moravian Church, followed by a unique luncheon celebrating the rich heritage of the Overberg. This event holds a special place for us as it marks the pivotal role that Genadendal played in the development of the Afrikaans language. We look forward to celebrating the rich linguistic and cultural history of the region with our community and visitors alike, showcasing Genadendal’s important contribution to the Afrikaans language and heritage. Finally, for someone planning their first visit to the museum, what are the must- see parts of the museum, and do you have any tips for making the most of their visit? For first-time visitors, the Old Watermill demonstration, the iconic Pear Tree, the Cottage Museum, and the La Trobe Wagon House which houses the oldest ox- wagon in South Africa, are all highlights. To truly immerse yourself in the experience, I recommend booking a guided tour beforehand to ensure you don’t miss anything! For bookings, please contact us at genadendalmuseum@gmail.com
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