GRAAFF-REINET NEWS - For much of history, women’s contributions have been overlooked, often overshadowed by the men whose names fill our records.
In celebration of Women's Month, the Graaff-Reinet Museum is hosting special exhibitions featuring women who have helped shape the community of this town.
The town was shaped in an era of deep patriarchy - yet, behind every celebrated male figure is a woman whose courage, creativity and determination helped shape this community.
Anziske Kayster of the museum told Graaff-Reinet Advertiser more about the exhibitions, which are housed in the different buildings that comprise the museum.
Maria Susanna Murray (1809 - 1889)
Maria Susanna Murray was a loving mother, wife, and woman of deep faith whose life left a lasting impact on her family and community.
Married to Rev Andrew Murray at just 16, she moved with him to Graaff-Reinet, where she raised 16 children, twelve of whom survived into adulthood.
Known for her gentle nature, strong Christian convictions, and strong devotion to her family, Maria taught her children to read, prayed for them daily, and even studied Latin to support their education.
In her letters she encouraged learning, kindness, and faith that spoke to her love and wisdom.
Her life reflects the strength and dedication of women who build families and communities through selflessness and devotion. (Reinet House)
Mama Zondeni Veronica Sobukwe (1927 - 2018)
Mama Zondeni was a brave and determined freedom fighter who stood firm against the injustices of apartheid.
Married to Robert Sobukwe, leader of the Pan Africanist Congress, she endured years of hardship during his long imprisonment.
She wrote countless letters to government officials demanding his release and better treatment, and even offered to live on Robben Island to care for him - requests that were always denied.
A health worker and activist in her own right, she never stopped advocating for justice.
She represents the strength of countless black women whose sacrifices in the struggle for freedom are often forgotten, yet whose courage continues to inspire generations. (Old Library)
Harriet Rabone (1830-1890)
Harriet Rabone, wife of William Rabone and sister of Alfred Essex, left industrial England seeking a better life in South Africa.
In 1853, she and William survived a perilous voyage when their ship foundered at sea, finally arriving in Graaff-Reinet that November.
While William and Alfred became involved in the local press, particularly The Graaff-Reinet Herald, Harriet - a talented artist - founded the Graaff-Reinet School of Drawing.
She lived for a time at 1 Parsonage Street (now The Old Residency) and gave art lessons at the Ladies Seminary (today Reinet House).
Although she did not enjoy teaching, her artistic skill and entrepreneurial spirit, including selling garden produce, helped sustain her family during financial hardship.
Her creativity and resilience left a quiet but lasting mark on the town’s cultural history. (Old Residency)
Mabel Urquhart (1876 - 1963)
Born Mabel van Niekerk in Graaff-Reinet, Mabel was known as the “grand old lady” of the town.
In 1900 she married Herbert Urquhart, the mayor of Graaff-Reinet, and together they served as mayor and mayoress for over 21 years. Their home, “Kensington”, famed for its beautiful gardens, reflected her nurturing spirit.
Mabel was active in numerous community organisations, including St Dunstan’s and the Girl Guides Association, and was widely respected for her charm, dignity, and civic devotion.
She and Herbert had no children, and she passed away intestate in 1963 in what is now Urquhart House, part of the Graaff-Reinet Museum precinct.
Her leadership traits, compassion and lifelong service remain an enduring part of the town’s history. (Urquhart House)
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