Historical landmark soon to be ‘crown of the town’

It’s a bee’s nest of activities in Landdrost Street at the ‘Raadsaal’, where André van Ellinckhuyzen and a newly-formed committee took ‘ownership’ of the 1885 historical landmark in March. This comes after Director of Community Services TS Mthembu held a meeting with the local community and offered them the building to ‘take care of’. The Vryheid Herald reported in March that it was decided that a committee would be responsible for the ‘Raadsaal’, which in turn would attract tourists and prevent vagrants from occupying the porch and making fires during the winter months.

Progress on the project saw a newly-erected fence around the building and property, the outside porch was fixed, and the roof was painted. They are currently busy with the outside of the building, but unfortunately it will take some time since funds are low at the moment. These are only a few of the visible improvements that occurred over a very short period of time. Residents and other historians show extreme interest in the renovation of the building, and have generously contributed to the restoration of the ‘Raadsaal’, but more funds are desperately needed to restore the building to its former glory. The news of a community joining hands to preserve its town’s history has sparked interest from mainstream media houses as well. Maroela Media recently covered the story in the hopes of inspiring other towns to take up the responsibility of preserving their towns’ landmarks as well.

André mention that the committee also submitted the ‘Raadsaal’ committee’s constitution to Director of Community Services TS Mthembu. Furthermore, he mentioned that Mr Mthembu showed great interest in the project and is supporting them in any way possible. “I am extremely impressed and grateful towards Mr Mthembu and his positive mindset towards our project,” said André on Thursday morning.
Mthembu said, “The Raadsaal building was neglected and homeless people were vandalising the building. Through the initiative and interest shown by Mr van Ellinckhuzyen and the entire team, things started to happen. The partnership between the municipality and the residents can have huge benefits for both parties. This is evidence that when we put our heads together, we can achieve greater heights. I commit myself to supporting the Raadsaal project and ensuring good working relationships. I’m delighted to be associated with such a positive group who work tirelessly.”

If anyone is willing to contribute (money or labour) to the renovations of the ‘Raadsaal’, please contact André van Ellinckhuyzen on 083 254 5528.

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The news provided to you in this link comes to you from the editorial staff of the Vryheid Herald, a sold newspaper distributed in the Vryheid area.