The Davidsonville community recently came together to celebrate the birthday of a very special woman.
Catherine Jacobs celebrated her 98th birthday earlier this month on 10 March.
She has vast knowledge regarding Roodepoort as she moved to the area from Barkley West when she was just 10-years-old.
”Over the years things have changed drastically. This was once King George’s land before. Back in the day there were trams in the city and we could walk in the streets without worrying about vehicle accidents. The children were more respectful because they were raised well. There was more discipline despite the times we lived in,” she said.
She has lived in numerous areas in Johannesburg including Sophiatown, Maraisburg and Newclare.
“Living in Newclare and Sophiatown was marvelous. There were all kinds of races that lived in the area and there was no fighting between the races based on skin colour at all. However, I do remember there were certain tribal issues between the Sothos and Amashweshwe tribes. Every weekend they would fight and kill each other,” she said.
After leaving school after studying at a Malay Camp and a Catholic school, Catherine worked in service as a domestic worker.
“There were no factories in those days, however, we were never short of money. My wages for the month was 10 shillings and everyone was fed and taken care of. Life was cheaper then,” she said.
This is when she met Andrew Jacobs, her husband. They lived in Maraisburg where they had six children before the government of the time had them moved to Davidsonville.
Her last born child and son was born after their move.
Jacobs said the secret to her longevity was the bible and the lessons found therein.
“I am very healthy and have no aches or pains. The secret to that is to honour your mother and father as the bible teaches us,” she said.
She did not forget to give a word of advice to the youth of Roodepoort.
“Educate yourself and don’t worry about silly things such as drugs and alcohol which are not good for their state of minds and bodies,” she said.
Davidsonville activist Celeste Janse van Rensburg said she is happy that Ma Becky has reached such an advanced age. “We are happy that Ma Becky is still with us. Pastors from Kofifi FM came and showed respect,” she said.
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