Are you aware of this Facebook group?

Daily updates of pictures, memories and stories of the old mining town, affectionately known as the The Jewel of the East, have people reminiscing of the days gone by.

Current and former Benoni residents have been exposed to a wealth of history on the old mining town.

”It has brought back many memories that were almost forgotten and the newer updates keep us posted with what’s happening back in our hometown – because Benoni will always be home, no matter what,” said Matilde Ponte de Sousa (who has been living abroad for 20 years) on the group.

”I have also shown my kids certain posts, articles and photos – they, too, were born there but left too early to remember anything, so it’s a lovely way to show them where they were born.”

Jenny Manuel Born, a member of the group, said: ”Bred and still living in Benoni.

”It has been so amazing to communicate with people of all ages.

”The photographs bring back loads of memories.

”Just so much fun.

”Love it.”

The Facebook group was started in July 2013, by Farrarmere resident Glynis Cox Millett-Clay.

”The inspiration of this group was started by myself, as I love the history of Benoni and, being a keen collector, I have a mine of information, pictures and data which I would like to share with you,” she said.

”This group is for Benoni guys and girls who love to reminisce on the past and present – remembering the wonderful times, places and people who have meant something in their lives.”

Millett-Clay planned to publish a pictorial book on Benoni’s past and present in 2005, before Benoni’s centenary in 2007, but this was shelved due to printing costs and a lack of sponsorship.