New Wentworth history book looks to inspire future generations
The community of Wentworth came together to commemorate the community’s unique and diverse history with the launch of the Wentworth Social History Book.
Wentworth’s A Social History From Below which revealed more than three decades’ stories of struggles, triumphs and unity among the Wentworth community, was launched at Austerville Community Hall on November 9. The event marked not only the launch of the book, but also commemorated the Democracy @ 30 project.
Authored by Darian Smith, Theresa Saber, Prof. Heidi Van Rooyen, Maree Harold, Dr. Gregory Houston, Dr. Bronwynne Anderson and Marilyn Couch, the book explores themes of local industries, historical landmarks and, importantly, Wentworth’s role regarding the transition to democracy in South Africa.
Also read: Heritage festival to celebrate Wentworth’s cultural history and diversity
The event which also marked the Democracy @ 30 project, was supported by the Human Sciences Research Council and was a testament to the commitment of the Wentworth community to face its past and look to a promising future.
Smith, programme director and co-author, said the theme of Democracy @ 30 served as the focus of the day.
“The project asked Wentworth residents to reflect on their three-decade experience with democracy to inspire a collective responsibility for building a more inclusive future,” said Smith.
The keynote speakers, Jerome Schoonberg and Glen Manning, aimed to inspire the community even further. Schoonberg, a community leader, spoke about the struggle with apartheid, liberation and democracy and showed how these had particularly affected Wentworth. Manning, a well-known community figure, expressed the need to record the stories of the community. “Our history is more than a recording of the past; it’s a guide for our future,” Manning said.
The Wentworth social history book narrates the area’s heritage in great depth and exposes facts that are not well known, together with personal stories that detail the true journey of Wentworth.
Smith said, “The book delves into the origins of Wentworth and how the apartheid-era forced removals and forged a uniquely close-knit community. Equally, it covers stories of activism and resistance, highlighting community members who fought for a better future which remains central to Wentworth’s identity today.”
Smith said the book was powerful and an inspiration to the readers
– a true tribute to the journey of Wentworth. “By purchasing a copy, readers assist in preserving our local heritage so that today’s stories can survive for the generations which will come afterwards. This book acts as a window to South Africa’s democratic journey, reflecting how Wentworth has adapted and thrived through the transitions of our country,” he said.
He invited all lovers of history to read the book since the spirit and resilience that define Wentworth are harnessed in it.
This event was brought to a close when Smith noted the renewed sense of hope and determination in the Wentworth community to build a more inclusive future.
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