Posted September 2006

21/09/2006 Celebrating a woman of worth, Marie Koopmans-De Wet, Monday 25 September

Marie Koopmans-De Wet, for whom Koopmans-De Wet House in Strand Street, South Africa's oldest house museum, is named, was a 19th century woman of worth. Involved in numerous cultural issues of the day, she also fought for such causes as preventing the closure of a Malay cemetery on Signal Hill and alleviating the plight of Boer women and children, many incarcerated in concentration camps, during and after the SA War (1899-1902).

On Monday 25 September, to commemorate Heritage Day and to mark the 100th anniversary of her death, Iziko Museums have organised a day of cultural events at this beautiful and historical city landmark. From 11:00-13:00, there will be lectures by Professor Peter Merrington of UWC, Dr Helene Vollgraaff of Iziko Museums and Marthinus van Bart of Die Burger on topics ranging from heritage to the "rebellious" Marie Koopmans-De Wet. From 14:30, visitors can relax to the serene sounds of baroque played by the String Trio comprising two violins and cello.

Entry for the day is R5 per person. Enq: Wieke van Delen 082 593 4497.

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