History fanatics invited to a presentation in Modderfontein

Community members are invited to learn more about South African history and the involvement of South Africans in World War I at a presentation hosted by the Modderfontein Conservation Society.

It will be held on March 23 at the Modderfontein Reserve Education Centre at 14:00.

The discussion will be presented by the chairperson of the Heritage Association of South Africa and honorary professor of the School of Architecture and Planning at Wits University, Kathy Munro.

The discussion is titled Men of the Mendi and the SA Native Labour Corp in France in World War I.

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In February 1917, the troop ship SS Mendi was transporting the SA Native Labour Corp men to France but sank in the English Channel.

Over 600 men were lost.

“It was a tragedy for our nation and, over time, has been compared to the losses of the SA forces on the Western Front in France at the Battle of Delville Wood in 1916,” said Munro.

Today, the Order of the Mendi is an SA award for extraordinary heroism and courage granted by the president.

“This talk explores the event, why it happened and what the consequences were,” explained Munro.

“I cover the tragedy in the context of the turmoil of the First World War, the contribution of the South African Native Labour Corp and why it is a part of SA’s story that should be remembered in the annals of military and social history.”

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Entrance costs R20 for members, R30 for visitors (cash only) and learners can enter for free. The money will help to cover expenses.

To get to the Education Centre, enter the Modderfontein Reserve through the Ardeer Road approach and keep left at all intersections.

For more information, call Alison Coppin on 083 292 5406.

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