Grocott’s Mail has already launched its 2012 theme, looking back on the history of Grahamstown since it was formally proclaimed 200 years ago. There is no question that there are many questionable chapters in the history of this town – particularly as it was initially established as a bastion of the colonial power of that time.
Grocott’s Mail has already launched its 2012 theme, looking back on the history of Grahamstown since it was formally proclaimed 200 years ago. There is no question that there are many questionable chapters in the history of this town – particularly as it was initially established as a bastion of the colonial power of that time. Nonetheless, we believe it is important to reflect on our history whether it be good, bad or plain indifferent. Let us identify the good so that we can celebrate it and identify the bad so that we may never repeat it.
The history of Grahamstown has been complicated by an array of isms: colonial jingoism, misdirected nationalism, a range of neo-liberalisms, and more than enough repugnant racism. Our history has been complex with all too often the good interwoven among the bad so that it would not do us justice to simply say that this period was bad and thereafter it has been, well, shall we say, so-so.
As part of our Project 200, looking back on the past – italGrocott’s Mail/ital is attempting to write profiles of 200 people who have made this town what it is. Some of the characters we profile were heroic, while others were notoriously evil – we’ve had them all in this town.
Our aim is to write as close to 200 words about 200 people who have defined Grahamstown. This is a massive undertaking and we are not at all sure that we will be able to complete so many profiles – so we are calling on you, the reader, to help us with this endeavour. Our list is far from complete – please give us tips about outstanding individuals who you believe ought to be on our list. Then if you feel you would like to write one or more of these profiles, let us know so that we can welcome your contributions.
We are maintaining a list of profiles at the following internet address http://alturl.com/qy77t/. On this document you will be able to see which profiles have been commissioned and how far they are. There are still many gaps and we would welcome your assistance.
If you would like to discuss this further write to editor@grocotts.co.za.
This Friday we are beginning a series of articles about Grahamstown's centenary. We will learn that not everyone was happy to celebrate the centenary exactly one hundred years ago.
