A meticulously crafted scale model of the historic Klipkerk in Heidelberg has been officially donated to Heidelberg Heritage and the Klipkerk, marking the culmination of a nine-month project by 86-year-old master model builder Ben Erasmus.

Erasmus, who has spent a lifetime building intricate scale models, said the Klipkerk project became one of the most meaningful works of his career.

“This was by far the most difficult and most detailed model I have ever attempted in my life.

“It took months of patience, precision, and absolute focus, because there were no plans to work from, but only photographs and measurements I had to take myself. Every single stone had to be cut, shaped, and placed by hand, and there were moments when I wondered if I would ever finish it.

“But at the same time, it was also the most rewarding project I have ever done, because every day I worked on it, I was taken back to my childhood in Heidelberg and the memories I have of this church and this community,” he said.

Erasmus said after retiring in 2000, he worked part-time for a charitable organisation in Pretoria for 15 years, while continuing his passion for model building.

“Over the years, I have constructed detailed replicas of world-famous structures, including the Burj Al Arab in Dubai, the Millau Viaduct in France, as well as vehicles such as an E-type Jaguar and Lamborghini Countach, alongside scientific models, including the James Webb and Hubble telescopes.

“The idea to build the Klipkerk model came in December 2024 when friends showed me a photograph of the church.

“Having attended Laer Volkskool during my primary school years, I immediately recognised the building and decided to recreate it. I had no architectural plans available and relied on site measurements and enlarged photographs to guide the construction, scaling details down to approximately 4mm by 3 mm for each stone block. I had more than 7000 individual stones cut, shaped, and assembled by hand from balsa wood,” he said.

Erasmus described the project as deeply personal and said he felt privileged to still be able to complete such intricate work at his age.

“I truly believe this ability is a gift from the Lord. At 86 years old, I am very grateful that I can still see well enough, think clearly, and work with a steady hand to do something like this. Not everyone is blessed to continue doing what they love at this age, and I do not take it for granted at all,” he said.

Heidelberg Heritage Association chairperson Tony Burisch expressed his appreciation for the donation, saying the model would become an important part of preserving local history.

“We are deeply honoured to receive this extraordinary gift. The level of detail and dedication that went into this model is truly remarkable. It not only reflects the architectural beauty of the Klipkerk but also captures the spirit of Heidelberg’s heritage. This is a priceless contribution to our community, and we are sincerely grateful for his generosity and craftsmanship,” he said.