Former members of the 7th Medium Regiment are appealing for memorabilia to be donated for a museum exhibit.
Chris Webster, son of the late Major General Neil Webster who was the director of general resources of the defence force and a lieutenant colonel in the Seventh Medium Regiment, said they are trying to recover memorabilia to place in the museum at The View in Parktown.
“This was the Transvaal Scottish headquarters and is still looked after by them. It was also Sir Thomas Cullinan’s (of diamond fame) home in Johannesburg; a magnificent building among the Rand Lords,” Webster explained.
“When a regiment disbands, the memorabilia often go ‘walk about’. We are, therefore, appealing for any of the former members or their family to come forward if they have historic pieces of interest for our exhibition.”
In 1991, Webster donated two collections of more than 300 items to Benoni Museum, which were accepted by the then curator, Marietje Joubert.
An article in the City Times stated that the Webster collection consisted mainly of memorabilia, including medals, shields, decorations, photographs and documents.
The collection donated by Seventh Medium Regiment consisted of photographs, trophies, medals, flags and uniforms.
Chris said he is working on getting approval from The View to incorporate loaned artefacts donated by his dad from the Benoni Museum into this new exhibit.
Both Webster and the regiment had close associations with Benoni for many years.
The regiment was formed in the town and received the Freedom of Benoni in 1981. Webster is immortalised in the Benoni Lane of Fame, in Cranbourne Avenue.
Anyone who has memorabilia of the regiment or would like more information about the planned exhibition may contact Chris Webster on 082 800 5425 or email chrisw@yebo.co.za
ALSO READ: Benonian collects royal family memorabilia
ALSO READ: Local SANDF regiment puts food on the tables of needy families
