Trafalgar High School, Cape Town, in the ’60s
[This blog is for all Trafalgarians. It is a work in progress and any contribution is welcomed no matter which years you attended.]
My name is Warren Ludski. This is my little effort to hang on to the memories of my high school days. Some of you may even remember me (for reasons I’d care to forget). I attended Trafalgar from 1962-66.
Without a doubt they were five wonderful years but truth to tell, I ended up at Trafs by accident. I was born in Newlands, among all those oak trees and fully expected to go to Livingstone as all St Andrews Newlands Primary School pupils did. But family circumstances and the Group Areas Act decreed otherwise.
My family was booted out of our Newlands home and I ended up in Wynberg. It looked for sure and certain that I would be going to Wittebome High. But the Group Areas Act intervened again and I had to move once more. I ended up in Goodwood in the care of an uncle and aunt (the Tobins) whose children were all at Harold Cressy.
They wanted me to go to Cressy but it was late in 1961 and that august establishment (no not the one across the road), was full.
Another uncle, Lennie Moerat, taught at Trafs at the time and he swung a deal to get me in there. And I’ve never regretted it. In any case, I was a municipal bursar, how could they refuse.
I was in the ‘A’ class – we were the Latin scholars you know.
I didn’t do anything eventful in my time, although some of my teachers would disagree [see my Std 10 class teacher, Solly Edross’s comments in my September ’66 report card].
After I matriculated I trained as a journalist and have been one ever since. I started with that auspicious weekly, the Golden City Post and moved to the Cape Herald when the Argus bought it and shut it down in Cape Town.
Where am I now?
I migrated to Australia in 1986 after 15 years with the Cape Herald and I now live in the capital Canberra, working as a journalist for the Australian Government for 22 years. I write media releases and do media liaison for the department.
I also began doing casual subbing at the Canberra Times, a broadsheet paper that services the national capital. I have been doing it continuously since 1987, two to three nights a week.
My family comprises wife Mally, daughter Cleo and son Zac.
Indelible on my Mind
In my five years at Trafs, some people left memories that remain indelibly imprinted on my mind … apart from my classmates, people like Graeme Samuels now living near Sydney, Albert Hess, Mary Cloete, Saunders and Simmons (the two beanpoles), Nazeem Sydow, Johnny Alexander, Hassiem Manuel, the Petersen boys of Elsies River, Rhodiah Isaacs, Valdemar Patel, Sybil Pick, Andy Kay, Gilbert Lawrence, Angela Pillay, Minnie Ebrahim, Janie Pasha, Nazma Adams….
There were lots, lots more but time (and advancing years) tend to wipe the memory banks in places.
I will update that list when the memory bank kicks in. In the meantime, feel free to contact me to correct facts I may have gotten wrong or embellished too much.
January 27, 2012 at 9:14 am
Well, ever the optimist, I’m hoping that the meeting tomorrow morning will be fruitful and that we can look forward to some sort of event that acknowledges the esteem in which our school is held.
There are a few things I would like to flag for whoever goes to that meeting with Nadeem:
1. Please be aware there are quite a few Trafalgarians who live overseas but who are keen to attend any celebration. Plan with us in mind.
2. There need not be just one function. I have spelt out to Nadeem a number of options including one which could cater for different decades — one is mindful that the Sixties may not have much in common with the Nineties other than that they were at Trafalgar (which is important of course).
3. The school could possibly treat any event as a long-term fundraiser.
4. Should there be any organising committee, it should be aware that there are people with expertise overseas who could help. Today’s technology allows us to work together even though we are thousands of kms apart.
These are just a few thoughts. I look forward the outcomes of a productive meeting in the Kombuis in the Bo-Kaap.
And I also look forward to the centenary publication.
Warren
January 26, 2012 at 2:21 pm
Hi Shereen, I will yet again try to awaken the Trafalgarians in asking them to forward you their articles. Regards Ryan Busby
January 26, 2012 at 2:04 pm
It’s 1am Jan 27 and I’ve just driven 13 hours after a week-long holiday and logged in to approve this. Let’s hope it develops into something good. I will add my five-bob’s worth when I wake up in a few hours. I’m feeling good about “an appropriate celebration”.
January 26, 2012 at 11:09 am
Ryan and everyone else who can help by putting the word out on your social networks (again)
– We are winding up (yes finally) the collection of articles for the centenary publication. After months of begging, pleading and cajoling (and even threatening .. ahem!), we still have nothing from the Trafalgarians of the new century. I had not imagined that getting pieces of writing would be so much like the proverbial pulling of teeth.
However, we cannot wait forever. This first month of the year has whipped by and those who know about publication will know that the actual process is neither straightforward nor quick. If we want the publication out, we cannot wait beyond the end of this month. Even this wait is only because we’re still trying for something from two or three of our oldest living alumni (to our knowledge) whose spirits are willing, nay eager, but………
Though many people say that they’ve only just heard about the proposed publication, those who’ve been following this blog and been contacted via other people’s networks know that it’s been months in the offing. Most of the contributors to this blog have long since handed in (very good) pieces of writing and photos. It would be grossly unfair (and I’ve already been hauled over the coals for this) to those who met the various (and oft extended) deadlines, if we were to continue to extend. Besides, the process cannot go on ad infinitum. 2012 only has so many days, weeks and months in it.
So – whoever else is out there and wants to say their say about their alma mater and their schooldays, get writing…….. as in NOW?!!?
Just a few words of caution – an alumnus desperate to have his words enshrined in the centenary publication sent us a “poem” from the wall of the boys’ toilet, circa seventies. Needless to say, it was the only piece submitted thus far which even this editor could not turn into something suitable for the publication. Well, for any publication, really. Sadly, we had to decline this offering and will feel obliged to decline anything similar. Humour does go stale when taken out of it’s natural home. I use the word “natural” advisedly, since the “poem” concerned certain natural functions.
January 25, 2012 at 9:34 pm
After the fallout following the “assembly” / “non-celebration” ie loads of left out people are still crapping on my innocent self – I decided to forward it to Nadeem. He has agreed to meet some of the disgruntled alumni in CT later this week. Anyone who wants to go, contact Nadeem at the school………….
January 25, 2012 at 8:51 pm
Aziza Ismail (nee Ebrahim) matriculant of 1979 had a 30 year reunion and what a great informal well attended function it was because we could reminise about our wonderful school career at Trafalgar. I was told by one of my ex-classmates about the celebration of Trafalgar’s centenary where only the elitists was invited. From those that attended our 30th reunion only two was invited to my knowledge.Come on!! Trafalgarians remember our philosophy ” A injury to one is an injury to all. United we stand, divided we fall.” Lots of sacrifices was made that is why Trafalgar High is an icon today. We need not look far as to see what Trafalgar has produced, so why choose non-Trafalgarians as guest speakers, marginalized ex pupils by not informing/advertising so that more could have attended and not read it in the press. There is a GREAT interest shown by many ex-Trafalgarians wanting to get together for a Centenary Bash.
January 25, 2012 at 1:52 pm
You may have seen in the community newspapers that the opening event of Trafalgar’s centenary year was hosted at the school with Trevor Manuel as the guest speaker. This has caused lots of unhappiness with ex-Trafalgarians who were unaware of this and other proposed events (myself included). In order to address the issues and the proposals for the rest of the year, the principal, Nadeem Hendricks, is meeting with ex-Trafalgarians at 09h00 on Saturday 28th January 2012 at Bo Kaap Kombuis. Please avail yourselves and pass on the message to as many alumni as you can get in touch with.
Regards
HANIEF DOLLIE
EXECUTIVE ASSOCIATE
Tel: +27 21 405 9600 | Fax: +27 21 419 6774 | Cell: 0836434841 | Email: haniefmh@ct.kanteys.co.za
Web: http://www.kanteys.co.za | Post: P O Box 3132, Cape Town, 8000
January 23, 2012 at 11:37 am
Please join the Ex-Trafalgarians FB group. Use the following link. http://www.facebook.com/groups/2373368477/
January 23, 2012 at 11:12 am
Hi everyone, what ideas do you have for Trafalgar’s 100th anniversary. What would make this event successful and memorable? Who would you nominate as a guest speaker/s? Any Ideas that you have for Trafalgar’s 100th anniversary will be appreciated. Use this blog, email me or join Ex- Trafalgarian facebook group. The link is http://www.facebook.com/groups/2373368477/10150617797843478/?notif_t=group_activity , my email for this group is r.p.busby@gmail.com . Regards Ryan Busby.
January 16, 2012 at 11:50 pm
PS One of the alumni mentioned several times in this blog and the articles I received, an ex-political prisoner and now a high-ranking member of his profession suggested most humbly that if we can’t be invited to events, could we all just have an open day, when we could all visit the school and walk in the old place – perhaps with a corner for each decade where that decade’s alumni could gather and reminisce. This is a guy who deserves to have been where Manuel was on Tues, yet is so humble that all he asks is to be welcomed to walk the walk in the school with his old mates. Vat note, grootkoppe!
January 16, 2012 at 11:43 pm
Dear fellow alumni,
Despite my saying, on this blog and a zillion emails and phone calls, that I am just the editor of the publication, not responsible for centenary celebrations, people who were made aware of last week’s event have decided to k….k on me from a dizzy height as they used to say in the dorp when I was a (rather rude) girl.
I hoped that YOU KNOW WHO would take the responsibility that he was handed, walk upright in the rather dauntingly big shoes he chose to put his feet into and respond to the alumni on the issues they wanted answers on both before and since last week’s event.
Like me, people seldom got responses to questions by phone or email, or got rather fluffed with one story or another. How’s that for diplomacy – fluffed? Part of the fluff is that this was just a little school assembly with a cake and the real celebrations will take place later. Yeah, right, a lot of schools hold birthday assemblies with ministers of state, judges and business people in attendance.
The following are extracts from the kind of emails I’ve received since last Thursday’s event was reported in the Cape Town press:
- “I would like to inform you that although many of us are ex-Trafalgarians we get the impression that if you are a celebrity and have money you are better seen than other ex-Trafalgarians by the present Trafalgarians caretakers. It was clearly seen at the opening of the centennial celebrations where the guest speaker was Trevor Manuel and R100000 was donated by his side kick Fred {Jan}who was an ex -Trafalgarian. It is a good financial boost for the school we have no problem with anyone donating to the school but not one of us knew about the opening. I liase with a number of ex-Trafalgarians daily through emails but they were all surprised to hear afterwards of the opening of the centennial celebrations via a – communty newspaper.”
- “…did not received notice of the centenary – was out of the country for a short while beg of the year. Read about it in the paper this morning – rather disappointed.”
- “Is the Trafalgar Celebration still on track. No Alumni that I know seem to know about it. Have invitations or announcements been made?”
- “They apparently having a launch of their website tomorrow with a function which I’m not to sure about where and when this is happening.”
- “…read the Cape Argus report of 12 January ……………with interest and sadness. ……….. what saddened me is that very clearly the politicians identified the school’s centenary celebration as an OPPORTUNITY to drive their exploitative and non productive agendas. This is very sad and very unfortunate. ……………….surely Trafalgar could have had one of it’s own alumni, a credible and brilliant individual to highlight the relevance and importance of Trafalgar’s centenary celebration. Why did they allow OPPORTUNISTIC politicians to hijack and tarnish the history of the school at such a historic occasion? ……….. For decades Trafs produced many brilliant individuals, academics and leaders. I am sure if the Trafs centenary organizers of the event as reported by the Cape Argus looked at their alumni data base they would have had great difficulty due to the vast spread of brilliant minds to choose from to be the main person at the event. On the other hand they would most probably have been spoilt for choice.”
I actually agree with the criticisms of last week’s events, as seen in my previous contribution to this blog. I find myself in the invidious position of either staying silent in the interests of being “professional” and “diplomatic” , or defending developments I am as aggrieved at as others, or saying the hell with diplomacy and professional ie smokescreens for hiding from robust criticism and debate.
Therefore, those Trafalgarians who feel aggrieved, I don’t ask you to hold back with your slings and arrows. I ask only that you direct it to those who best deserve it. And if you’ve a spare set of said slings and arrows, please pass them to me. Not only will show you where to aim, but I will gladly help.”
Or, as they say in the dorp, “Julle vannie Trefs, haal uit en wys!”
January 15, 2012 at 2:06 am
The “unexpected” appearance of The Hon. Trevor at Trafs is a surprise . . . did his partner Maria attend Trafs and did she use her influence? When he mentioned the late Hon. Dullah, did he also mention his inspirational academic mentor at Trafs . . Mr Ben Kies?
Perhaps the mention of “the doctor” or Mr Cressy may have upstaged a ministerial visit. The enforcers of apartheid never wanted us to know about “the doctor” . . . SA’s original non-white political leader and champion of equality whose “political house call” to Gandhi in India may have set the stage for India’s independence from colonial rule. Discounting the duration of WW2 suggests that “the doctor’s” political remedy (a political laxative) took effect within 4-years of his “overseas house call” and relieved India of political oppression.
When Mandela was released from prison, he chose to follow a path originally walked by “the doctor”, long prior to the founding of the ANC, to bring about peaceful change in SA in the interest of political equality and related freedoms. People such as “the doctor” and Gandhi chose to seek reconciliation with political rivals, instead of revenge.
It is sad that the “YOU KNOW WHO” left out the legacy of Traf’s founding principal who is his example, has great lessons to teach even the modern generation of students. When “the doctor” opened a door of opportunity for him, he could have waited a year when accepted late into the B.A. program . . . except that he showed us that when faced with adversity, we often retain the “power to choose our attitude!”
He chose to persevere and struggle through the adversity . . . . because “he was worth the effort” and “greater than the problem that was before him”. His legacy encouraged others who followed, to choose to persevere and struggle through their adversity because they “were worth the effort” and often “greater than the adversity that was before them”. He became the mentor for many other high school principals and teachers . . . . including a certain Edward “Ned” Doman, founding principal of Livingstone and for whom “the doctor” and Mr Cressy had been mentors.
Very sad that the legacy of some great Traf’s people has to be sidelined for the sake of politics.
January 14, 2012 at 7:29 pm
Dear Trafalgarians:
Greetings from the Land of Ice and Snow !
Trafalgar High School,our Alma Mater has just celebrated its Centenary with a celebratory event at the building on January 12, 2012 marking this very auspicious occasion.
Heartiest Congratulations !
May the success of its past shape the future for each new generation.
This stalwart institution, as in its past “glory days” is still evoking a variety of political responses which clearly demonstrates its inherent ‘power’…..POLITICS IS LIFE !
I stand ready to assist a Trafalgar Organizing Committee, in whatever form it takes (or will take) in any capacity of which I am capable.
Albeit I am thousands of kms from the Cape but the 21 st. century electronic media will be useful.
I await further news.
All the best and many thanks to Warren for all his efforts and in getting this blog started !!!
William M.C. Volkwijn
Proud Trafalgarian 1956 -1960
Canada
January 13, 2012 at 11:23 pm
Sat am in Canberra and I woke up to Shereen and Mickey’s postings and obviously there are few issues swirling around. Will add my contribution later because Sat am is set aside for a number of things and sitting in front of a computer screen isn’t one of them. I hope other bloggers will join in the discussion but before I set about my Saturday duties I’ll say two things … this blog is beginning to sizzle and yes, Shereen’s right, no @#$%^-ing swearing!
January 13, 2012 at 8:06 pm
Oh, indeed, Harry, Manuel did mention his illustrious ex-cabinet colleague and our fellow alumnus, Dullah Omar. The problem is, if the Argus report (which is all we have to rely on since we were neither informed of nor invited to the event) is to be believed, he chose only certain of our distinguished alumni to mention – those who were members of the ANC, or went over to the ANC.
The people who were at the heart of the early fight for equal education for all in SA, the founding fathers and mothers of Trafs, the organizations they founded and were affiliated to, as usual, were air-brushed out of history. Not so much a Cressy coup, as an ANC coup, wiping the TLSA and the like from the history books, EVEN on their home turf, in their cradle.
But then both the ANC and Manuel and his acolytes are past masters at taking over someone else’s work and turning it into theirs. Ask those of us who were “the masses” working our behinds off in the eighties when Mr was swanning around looking for ways to bolster himself and his ilk in the Western Cape.
Personally, I think (and have heard others say) that a Cressyite of the same tradition as Trafs ie of the TLSA tradition, would have been better as a keynote speaker than this ……….well, Warren doesn’t like swearing on his website so let me “hou myself in”.
In case anyone thinks I have a dose of conspiracy sickness – ask yourselves: how come a minister of state, especially one so full of his own importance, has space in his very busy calendar for a school celebration?
And that raises another question in my mind, for all those of you who have been trying to extract info on the celebrations from YOU KnOW WHO and been told nothing is yet planned – no minister of state suddenly has clear space in his calendar. Such things have to be planned way in advance and there are a lot of logistics involved, so all this must have been on the cards for ages, or am I mistaken here?
January 13, 2012 at 12:10 pm
Hello Warren,
Eternal optimism and that other commendable characteristic a.k.a. shit-stirring, comes with the territory of being born Black in South Africa. BTW – my gast was flabbered to note that ‘coloured’ is an ethnicity option on some official forms back in the old country!!
No mention from Nadeem of centenary publication tie-in with events. However, he did big up Shereen’s work on same and I add my mega thanks too to Shereen. Please advise and inform all Trafalgarians to use the earlier posted web address to let Nadeem know of their preferences. He also told me that local Trafalgarians didn’t have a problem with the date; they just want to know WHEN so this behoves the rest of us to step up. Tempus fugit!!! I rather like the idea of multiple functions, perhaps during the same week. Are you reading any of this Nadeem?
I will be in CT for a family celebration at the end of February and so I remain in favour of a later date. It may be raining in July/August but in my heart the sun always shines in SA. Incidentally, recent visits during these months were warm and sunny.
Best wishes,
Mickey
January 13, 2012 at 12:23 am
Hi Warren,
I’m sure that Trevor Manuel will speak highly of his late colleague who attended Trafs, Dullah Omar and the contributions he made to the democratic rainbow nation of South Africa. The wife of the late Bennie Kies is still alive and may have attended Trafs as a high school student . . . then she went to teach at the school on Roeland Street that is named after Traf’s founding principal.
Another possible speaker would be the history professor at UCT who did much research into the lives of Dr Abdurahman (who played a leading role in Traf’s founding) and also the life of the founding principal . . . . as a high school student, he also attended the school named after Traf’s founding principal.
If somebody knows of an actor in CT who resembles Traf’s founding principal, perhaps an appearance by him wearing graduation robes, may come to the podium and deliver a speech that may represent the kind of speech that he delivered so long ago.
Harry
January 12, 2012 at 2:31 pm
Evidently there are those who do not see a bigger picture. I echo Warren’s prayers for the mother of all celebrations in honour of our beloved Trafalgar and the people who have passed through its portals.
January 12, 2012 at 2:10 pm
Interesting … A Cressy-ite the keynote speaker at Trafalgar’s centenary. Who put that event together? No disrespect to Manuel … but surely we could have found a Trafalgarian of estimable standing to be the keynote speaker. I’ll never be able to live this down with my relatives who attended Cressy. I want a lawyer! Who put this little shindig together! Somebody’s got to be accountable. Heads should roll. But i hope they have/had a great function anyway … and it’s just a precursor to one helluva centenary celebration. Thanks for the link Ryan.
January 12, 2012 at 1:49 pm
Directly quoted fromthe following link: http://www.iol.co.za/capeargus/city-school-trafalgar-turns-100-1.1211509
“Today, said principal Nadeem Hendricks, Trafalgar would celebrate at a special academic assembly and party.
The Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Trevor Manuel, would be the keynote speake and special guests were to include the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Western Cape ANC head, Marius Fransman, Western Cape High Court Judge Siraj Desai and the Labour Court’s Deputy Judge President Basheer Wagley.”
It’s a shame that so few people were informed about this auspicious occasion, when there are many that would have liked to attend Trafalgars 100yr centennial celebration.
January 12, 2012 at 1:07 pm
Mickey,
Thanks for the good wishes for 2012, but methinks we’re going to need more than good wishes to get this centenary show on the road.
I’m delighted to hear that you had a one-on-one with Nadeem. You’re doing a damn sight better than a few of us who have been hanging out for a few months for some sort of indication/direction.
If we had got the ball rolling in November, March would have been ideal.
But, let’s not nitpick. Let’s see if we can gain consensus for at least one primary centenary celebration (I did suggest to Nadeem — in emails and phone calls — that there be multiple functions based on decades or generations).
Late July August could be a starting point but … it’ll be mid-winter in Cape Town. I know one shouldn’t let the weather dictate our social life but jeez, you should know what it’s like going out in July when the wind is howling and the rain is coming in horizontally. Just a thought.
I’d be pushing for late April or early October (you could counter that it could just as easily be pissing down then, but it may just be a tad warmer). Whatever date we decide on, there must be a firm commitment to sticking to it because as far as I can see from contributors to this blog (and from other sources — people who are not comfortable blogging), there are quite a few people who would have to make travel arrangements to get to Cape Town.
I look forward to input from other people who visit this blog (are you listening Graeme) and hope there is more information forthcoming from you — or Nadeem — with regard to venue, format, timing, participation, committees.
Did Nadeem raise the matter of the centenary publication and whether it is tied into any activities or is the website going to be the focal point.
Mickey, I’m the eternal optimist. When they dumped a load of horse manure in our driveway on my fifth birthday, I wasn’t upset. I just thought: “With all this shit, there must be a pony!”
Same with this situation. There will be a centenary celebration.
Warren
January 11, 2012 at 7:47 pm
Peace&Love&Joy for 2012 to all Trafalgarians roaming the globe.
I had the pleasure of spending time with Nadeem Hendricks yesterday; despite his clearly busy schedule preparing for the first celebrations starting tomorrow.
Most of you will be aware of the website: http://www.trafalgarhighschool100years.co.za set up a few days ago to promote the celebrations and also encourage discussion re: a date that will suit most of us.
Nadeem wants this discussion to be led by and an eventual date to be decided by all Trafalgarians. March seems too soon as there is a helluva lot of preparations to consider. I am laying down the gauntlet and propose late July or August as this is summer holidays for schools in Europe and would enable the 60′s alumni to partake; okay – it would enable me to do so!!
I also called at Hassan Bavasah’s home en route to the airport and sadly for me, didn’t make contact.
Best wishes,
Mickey
January 11, 2012 at 7:36 am
Hello Sulaiman,
I remember those Arcadia riots quite well . . . . die skool hoof se naam was Henry Jacobs. He dismissed a teacher named Edgar Bastiaan from his post in mid-school year . . . Bastiaan het vir hom in die kantoor geskel en hy het die suiwe waarheid gehoor!!
With regard to Mr Ritchie at Harold Cressy, he was still only an acting principal at the time . . . only confirmed as principal in 1969, long after the Arcadia riots.
An earlier principal at Cressy who had served as the vice-president of the TLSA and was prominent in the NEUM, “disappeared” from the school (Hint: As VP of the TLSA, he had opposed the CAD taking over education). Several TLSA teachers were either banned or re-located to different schools . . . one fellow was given a post in Mafeking (or he could have resigned from teaching).
Many of us lived through our teachers being banned and the special branch coming to the school to remove teachers and even a few students from the premises. Back during 1956, the Gov’t saw fit to ban one of Traf’s very renowned teachers, Mr Bennie Kies who like the principal of Cressy at the time, quite literally told students what Dr Martin Luther King later delivered in speeches the USA.
The short-sightedness of the gov’t at the time “bonded” together students who attended many different schools across the Cape area . . . while there may have been rivalry on the sports field, when it came to politics and freedom, we all stood together.
Harry
January 10, 2012 at 8:02 pm
I was a student at Trafalgar between 1965 and 1968 when political activity was not voque but a little more serious. Remember Mr. Meltzer, (die joot without any disrespect but rather with fondness who left the office whilst Ronnie Davids beat the shits out of you and if you were too frequent visitor he allowed you a book as long as it made a sound).
Remember Pang (Mr Leanard) and Bowen. Both Moutie Keraan and Mr Polly Slingers were amongst my teachers when they were unceremoniously banned. Remember Arcadia High in Bonteheuwel and the students who came to Trafs when they closed the school to a number of students. Remember the Trafs students that supported them and campaigned for them to have a place at Trafs when the other schools like Cressy would not accept people frm Bonteheuwel. Yes that was the political commitment of Mr Richie. Remember Mr Anthony who was betrayed to the Security Branch by his colleague.
Now for some of my fond memories.
Remember Mervyn Africa would played the piano with his feet and what a musical sound he produced.
Remember Pang teaching Afrikaans and his textbook was the Bible.
Remember Jeagels the Geography teacher with the gangster. Nobody messed with him because he did not have a “bang haar op sy lyf”.
Remember Jayiya would left after matric.
Remember Per Angusta Ad Angusta, the school song and when sung at the track was listened to by other with respect and admiration.
Trafalgar Glorious name….
If there are any from that period let us connect.
Warrren it is good to remember but please not Simmons as he joined the Nats in the eighties and nineties but be selective. I stayed in the country and can tell you some interesting stories especially with regards to some of the people you memtioned. But that for another time.
No read carpets for the Diaspora
January 5, 2012 at 1:52 pm
Eeek!! Watch me tremble at the revelation that I too (whatever you may have thought, Ludski) am fallible. sob!
And this horse ain’t dead, mate!
I’ve got a few more begged for / commissioned pieces to come and then I’m sitting down with a friendly guy here in the UK, of the right political persuasion, who is willing to help with design and layout……….
After that, let’s see what else I can get out of people – but this publication will be ready in time for you to read it in your phone booth………..
January 5, 2012 at 9:29 am
Pay attention Pandit, the issue you raised was addressed by Pat Wagner on the “Teachers” page. Were I your teacher, I would have failed you on inattentiveness alone. Whether Pat Wagner, who is well mature in age terms, is accurate in his recollection, is a moot point. But it’s all we’ve got at the moment. And welcome back to the blog …and keep flogging what may seem a dead horse. To mix the metaphor, there may still be life in the old grey mare yet.
January 4, 2012 at 5:45 pm
Well, here I am, back and still editing as they come in. And, as usual, I need some help.
Does anyone out there have the full name of Mr Keraan who was arrested with Mr Sedick Isaacs in 1964?
Sorry, the i’s must be dotted and the t’s crossed – though no doubt I shall miss many things, not having a full editorial board behind me to catch what I miss……….. but you’ll all forgive me?
Am doing my best, with all of you to help.
January 1, 2012 at 11:37 am
Shereen, I second that emotion. I’m not big on New Year’s resolution but I have made one that relates to my old school . . . I’ll be doing my darndest to see that there is a fitting school 100th year celebration. IN SPITE OF THE TRUCULENCE, TARDINESS OF THE SCHOOL ITSELF. Even if I have to celebrate it in a phone booth with a friend.
Happy NEW YEAR to all you Trafalgarians.
January 1, 2012 at 12:43 am
Happy New Year, all on this blog!
Hope Santa brought you that pressie, Warren, since I was included in the wish!
Meantime, had to be content with a brilliant week in Istanbul., poor me!
Woke this morning to the sun rising over the Sea of Marmara and the sound of calls to prayer from umpteen mosques all over the city, led very ably by the muezzin from the Blue Mosque.
It’s been a spectacular week, just the thing to set me up to re-enter the fray, but first, there has to be the final weekend of “luising and lamming” until tweede Nuwe Jaar is well and truly over………………….
December 29, 2011 at 9:33 am
Two days to go and it’ll be 2012 .. a momentous year. Will it be? Maybe the New Year’s revelry will awake former Trafalgarians from their slumber and the bright ideas will kick in for a sensational season of centenary celebrations. I’m the eternal optimist. I think it will happen.
December 24, 2011 at 11:43 am
It’s just an hour or so to go before that chubby chap in the ill-fitting red suit with his bag of crap hits the road to brings goodies for those of us who haven’t been naughty this year.
Maybe, just maybe, I can convince him that deep down inside I’m a good person and can he please bring me a pressie.
Dear Santa, what I’d like is for you to bring me an invitation to my high school’s 100th birthday celebration.
An invitation to a reasonably swish venue that serves good food etc An invitation that says “Welcome speech by Polly Slingers; A potted history of Trafalgar by Cosmo Pieterse, a “Hall of Fame” presentation highlighting achievements by Trafalgarians in various fields; ….
Is that too difficult a request Mr Claus. And could you use your good offices with the weather office and organise it for late March when it’s great to be in Cape Town.
Also, could you organise invitations for my new BFF Shereen Pandit and my old BFF Graeme Samuels, and my old teacher who never really taught me, Pat Wagner and about 250 other people so that we can have an “opregte jol” after the formalities.
In the meantime, have a great festive season all you Trafalgarians who blog with me.
December 24, 2011 at 2:17 am
Greetings Warren and other Trafs. Bloggers:
My response to Warren’s latest lament is as follows:
There is indeed a “slim man” in Capetown and its environs who may be able to assist with the so-called fictional Celebrations.He is Dr. Harold Herman former Professor of Education, U.W.C. who organized a 50 th. celebration for his contemporaries two years ago.I was not present. I don’t have his email at hand as I hear sleigh bells ringing !
Another thought that crossed my mind recently regarding, the delay in the provision of the mysterious date, is the fact that the ANC has their Centenary on almost the exact date in 2012 and …?
Forget about “tokoloshes” right now, we are awaiting the big Red Elf’s appearance tomorrow night ! If it were in my power I would ask him to pack special gifts for Warren and Shereen for their stellar contributions thus far.
Thank you very much for your efforts, Warren and Shereen- it is much appreciated !
Compliments of the Season to all !
Cheers !
William M.C.Volkwijn
from : The Land of Ice and Snow
December 23, 2011 at 10:47 am
Just thinking outside the square here … maybe if I asked my local doekum, and the resident slim man and slim vrou, and the tokoloshe, who is the locum, to put their heads together with a sangoma, maybe, just maybe, we can come up with a plan for next year. They’re into alternative stuff aren’t they?
December 22, 2011 at 11:08 am
Mmm. Now how do you set a hit squad upon an invisible man, I wonder?
When you work that one out, can I join?
December 22, 2011 at 9:00 am
The way I feel Shereen is the only squad I am going to get together is a hit squad!
December 21, 2011 at 6:04 pm
Warren – babies, bathwater?
Come come. What happened to Per Angusta Ad Augusta? Get a squad of alumni together and set up a committee. Then contact the school board of governors to get their OK or see how they can help and to what extent.
Use what contacts you have at the school, bypassing the invisible man, to get the info you need.
December 21, 2011 at 11:53 am
Harry, for a minute there I thought you were being funny. But then I realised: you were at Harold Cressy high and all Cressyites had humour bypass operations. So you must be serious. And quite frankly, this centenary (or non-centenary) business is beyond a joke. I’m tempted to say start putting out feelers with your old Cressy connections to think about organising our centenary celebrations. It could put a few noses out of joint — but what the hell. To all intents and purposes, it can’t get any worse, can it?
December 20, 2011 at 10:02 pm
The school on Roeland Street that is named after the founding principal of Trafs, celebrated their 60th anniversary last year in 2011 . . . . . Perhaps the organizers of that event could organize the centennial celebrations for Trafs (Ha! Ha! Ha!). After all, their school is named after the founding principal of Trafs.
Harry
December 20, 2011 at 12:04 pm
December 19 — 12 days to 2012. AND STILL WE HAVE NO IDEA AOUT CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS!. That’s a pretty sad state of affairs Trafalgarians. Pretty bloody sad.
December 15, 2011 at 5:00 pm
Ludski
My hard drive packed up last night. On this computer, borrowed from the Cressyite with whom I live, having spent the day editing, I have time only for one more word: Ooops!
December 15, 2011 at 8:49 am
My dear Shereen. Good to see you talking up the stocks of the Cressyites in the public domain. You must be on a nice little earner with one of them. Personally, I would rather one of the erudite types from across the road from Cressy write things about my lovely school rather than have our prestigious publication sullied, despoiled, tainted by those Cressy illiterati. But that’s just me.
On another point about writing about teachers … I doubt whether you would get 350-400 words on a teacher from one student. I would think (yes, i know, there I go working without tools again) that harvesting 5, 6, 7 vignettes from different pupils on their abiding memory of a particular teacher would probably be the way to go. Two or three paragraphs with the pupil’s attribution (class, year) and you could come up with something that will give you a page ona teacher. For instance: Polly Slingers stood in front of a our class with that godawful history text book Gonin & Archer in his hand and said: This is their view of our history, I may have a different view. It left an indelible thought on my mind. Or Bavasah telling me “You look like a smart boy Ludski, take these papers and leave them in the lavatories downstairs.” Highly charged papers they were too. Or his first words in our Latin class: Amo, amas amat, daa’ kom Bavasah met ‘n lat. Like I said .. just a thought.
And my misbegotten youth? I don’t think wrapping a few Torch newsletters constitutes getting a Che Gueverra-like T-shirt printed. It fades to nothing compared with others.
December 13, 2011 at 8:07 pm
Uh, guys, I hate to tell you this but today a Cressyite submitted a brilliant piece on Harold Cressy, plus photo in graduate gown, plus photo of first decrepit building in which Trafs was housed. Another Cressyite submitted HC’s first address to first Trafs assembly. All stuff we can’t do without. Looks like Ludski et al will have to make peace with Cressyites. I made mine long ago by marrying one. I knew which side my bread was buttered, hey!
December 13, 2011 at 3:02 pm
Is anyone out there prepared to write a piece about their days with the famous Mr Polly Slingers? The man has been so oft mentioned, as has Mr Bavasah, that it would be a great pity not to have pieces devoted specifically to these great teachers.
We need both a bit of political background and a personal perspective / encounter / anecdotes.
Come, bloggers, be bold, be resolute………… after all, they’re not the type who would sue you……………..
December 13, 2011 at 12:20 am
Hello All,
The recent mention of banned people, such as Mr Polly Slingers who stood up in the name of freedom from oppression, highlights an important lesson. By their example, many of them showed us how to be resourceful in the face of adversity.
Best,
Harry
December 12, 2011 at 9:17 pm
Ludski
Why am I only hearing about your misbegotten youth as an infant **!!**!! stirrer here? Why has it not formed part of your article? In case you haven’t noticed, your early political delinquency is now regarded as totally halaal, nay even heroic, in the new SA.
Please get it into your article. As in NOW. I don’t care how you do it or how many more words I have allow you. And yes, you too, may have the extra time which I’ve allotted those alumni with whom I only made late contact.
Really. You guys talk the talk on this blog but in your articles most of you hide your political activities like they’re pieces of gold to be kept under the floorboards or dirty secrets to be kept in the closet with all the skeletons.
Ye Gods. I shall surely need hair dye before this publication goes to press……………
December 12, 2011 at 6:24 pm
Greetings from the Land of ice and snow, recent Trafs. Bloggers !
Many thanks for your swift, positive responses regarding the use of the “colour coding” and the continued use of the derogatory terminology so favoured by the oppressors, even as descriptive adjectives.
I won’t expand here on the word “black” which is still frequently used in the USA, Canada and in other Eurocentric circles by describing it (“black”) as a culture, a nation and, get this: a language !!!!!
When are we, as humans,going to stop being defined (and defiled),categorized and classified by the tones of our epidermal pigmentation? One could walk in many parts of urban areas in cities like New York, London, Paris and Toronto and have difficulty selecting who’s “in” and who’s “out” (if you are so inclined)……. don’t forget your pencils for the ultimate test ! We are not farmyard cattle designated for slaughter, not that the world has ever witnessed such atrocities, sadly, as in Rwanda and during the holocaust perpetrated by the Nazi regime.
To coin a well-worn cliche : We are all in this together on this planet Earth, now that NASA has discovered a similar planet in another galaxy !
And, yes, my late beloved dear mother, Mildred Kay (Volkwijn) aka Ma’m, as she was referred to by her students, was indeed a Method Mistress at Zonnebloem Teacher Training College for years.She is the sister of my late Aunty Joyce Kay,former principal at Upper Ashley St. Prep. We are also related to the brave and wonderful Joan Viljoen (Kay), spouse of Dr.Frederick Kay, their brother.Our dear Aunty Joan was banned and sentenced to house arrest in the 50′s/60′s under “The Suppression of Communism Act” by the then South African Nationalist Government. She is currently in her eighties and still residing in CT.Some of you may remember Andre, their son, my first cousin, who also attended Trafs.
Thanks for mentioning and bringing back the memories of these great women who inspired others by example, particularly during some of the dark days of the apartheid era.Though bound by the chains of apartheid,they valiantly struggled for Justice and Freedom for the provision of education for all of the youth of South Africa.
Keep the faith !
William M.C.Volkwijn
Trafs. Alumnus 1960
December 12, 2011 at 6:12 pm
Hello Warren,
Glad to hear that your aunt is still alive and well at age 98.
I recall the sentiments of a prominent TLSA member, Dick Dudley who chose to disregard the pre-1994 classification of students, including in conversation with Nelson Mandela.
Such also were the sentiments of the founders of both the TLSA and Trafs, Dr Abdurahman and Mr Cressy.
If you were distributing copies of The Torch in Cape Town, then you were following in the footsteps of some very influential people. I remember your aunt very well . . . . she was a committed and caring teacher (she knew me by my formal first name, same as Mr Cressy).
Regards,
Harry
December 12, 2011 at 11:45 am
Harry, glad to see you have seen the error of your ways, whilst South Africa is a beautiful rainbow nation, that rainbow is a non-racial rainbow.
With regard to Mrs Tobin, she’s my aunt who raised me from the age of 14. She is still alive and kicking at the age of 98 (I was with her this evening) and living alone to all intents and purposes. She was on the staff when Joyce Kay was the principal and I had the pleasure of visiting Upper Ashley Street many times to take things to my aunt.
Talking about the TLSA, as a student at Trafs, I was roped in by the family to fold TLSA pamphlets and The Torch down in a warehouse at the bottom of Hanover Street (closer to Buitenkant) on a Saturday morning. Would that have made me a young subversive? Just asking?
Warren
December 12, 2011 at 9:32 am
In response to William Volwijn’s comments regarding ” outdated descriptions ” and ” titles”, you are right, let us not continue to use the insulting language of that era.
What I said in relation to Harry’s comment regarding our Gold Medal maths teacher, we as a people were looked down upon,exploited and the rest yet, when it suited certain people they again sort to exploit our people although we not good enough even to share a bench in the park or a toilet when a human being badly needed to do so.
The word ” coloured” was used as an adjective and I still feel that inorder to achieve a given impact , that word in its context was and is the correct adjective which enabled me to achieve the desired outcome.
And Warren, I was born in Windermere ( actually ) if you don’t mind. We later moved to Kensington although some other ( elitist) individuals had their addresses reflect the suburb as ” Maitland-east! How is that for wanting to be when they were not !
Now I am not even going to touch on the residents of Kamberra
( Canberra) the public service centre of Australia and Queensland ( eh!)
Have a great Christmas guys.
December 12, 2011 at 7:19 am
….and Cliffy, don’t pick on Graeme too much. You’ll turn him into a typical naargat!
Warren
December 12, 2011 at 5:54 am
I’m sure Graeme will keep him windgat and mention some more. Sorry just had to throw that one in mate,
Cliffy
December 12, 2011 at 5:51 am
Warren my bro,
I’m so disappointed that you have left out many “gatte” my bro. What about vetgat, maergat, witgat,swartgat,bakgat,dikgat,malgat, ougat & kakgat. I’m sure our mate Graeme wil come up with some more gatte.
Cheers
Cliffy
December 12, 2011 at 2:37 am
Hello All,
I get the hint to recognize that SA is now a multi-cultural rainbow nation.
Warren, I remember a Mrs Tobin who taught at Upper Ashley Street Prep School (mum of Gil Tobin, a great athlete during his high school years). I also recall that William Volkwijn’s dear aunt Joyce Kay was the principal of that school during the heyday of the TLSA . . . and I believe that his mum may have taught at Zonnebloem.
Best,
Harry
December 12, 2011 at 12:32 am
BTW – if people do want to use terms for what they think is justifiable distinction between different groups of people under apartheid, the term “black” was in use to designate all oppressed and exploited regardless of classification – because black was the colour of oppression. Alternatively one can refer to the oppressed and exploited. A bit longer but avoids the C word. Let’s face it, that other C word is short too, but those for whom it is used prefer the longer but biologically accepted term.
December 11, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Dear William,
Will you get in touch on laattb@aol.com – please? I need to have someone from the fifties Trafs alumni confirm something for me – I know you were class of 1960, but that means you were at Trafs in the fifties and can perhaps just let me have the facts relating to a particular time – never mind what Warren says – it’s jealousy making him nasty.
Shereen
December 11, 2011 at 11:50 am
And Warren, join the club. The words blood and stones come to mind. You may think of this as meaning that you can’t get blood from stones. To me it means that there will be blood on stones soon. The stone in question is the cement block someone calls a head.
December 11, 2011 at 11:47 am
Dear William
I agree with you completely. The terminology runs totally contrary to what all the great Trafs teachers who have been mentioned in this blog, taught.
As for being outdated, the terms have increasingly crept back into usage in SA – in fact I had occasion to have words with a journalist in CT soon after the changes of 1994, when he used a far worse word than “coloured” to designate a certain group of South Africans……….. this in a debate on SA’s racist past. The journalist in question would have been obliged to carry the hated pass which all of us fought so hard against in the old days – he thought this gave him leeway to insult those of us who had not been so forced by law, even though he’d not been born when most of us commenced in struggle.
This blog doesn’t allow enough space to go into why a certain type, like this journalist, arrogate the right to themselves to so insult us.
Suffice it to say that my daughter, born and raised in a multi-cultural area of London, and sent to a local school where more than forty languages were spoken by fellow students, was totally shocked to be asked in CT why, if she was “coloured” she spoke with a “white” accent. She’d never been called “coloured” until then. ……….. It is weird, when we struggled for non-racialism – yes the only context in which you can use “race” is to designate the human one – to suddenly be called “coloured” again………..
December 11, 2011 at 6:35 am
My dear Mr Volkwijn, whilst I may share your sentiments and I have the capacity to approve/reject contributions to this blog, I lean more to letting through most comments and rely on my fellow bloggers to point out to each other the error of their ways. I will draw the line on gender-based and race-based invective. But happy for you to tell dear old Harry that he has to get with the program — or at least put those offensive words in quotes.
And for Graeme’s benefit, I’m prepared to cut him some slack and allow words with the suffix-gat to go through — vuilgat, slapgat, luigat, luisgat, dronkgat. He’s from Kensington, he’s got a limited vocabulary.
Discuss.
Andf while I’m chiding some fellow Trafalgarians … what’s with the “considering” forwarding an article for inclusion in the centenary publication. Did you get special dispensation from the dear old editor Shereen Pandit to send him something at this late stage? What did you also end being Teacher’s Pet? Graeme and I had the crap kicked out of us because we were a day late. What’s going on here Shereen?
And talking about Ms Pandit, anyone seen her lately? Must be flat out correcting my work.
And finally … I have twice now spoken with the principal Nadeem Hendricks to get a little more detail (if there is anything more than just the “we’re having a party next year”) on the celebrations. He has promised to respond to the many questions I put to him … that was three weeks ago. To date, nothing, zilch, zippo. Maybe we should send a few heavies around to lean on him. He also said the new school website was due to go up the next day. That, also, was two weeks ago. Still nothing.
Keep blogging! (And make sure you sign up for updates when someone posts on the blog).
December 10, 2011 at 9:17 pm
Post Script
What’s up with this outdated description of the students as being “Coloured” and “White” at UCT ? These are titles given and used by the proponents of the vile Apartheid government.Surely there are non-racist terms that could be used in this day and age during the 21 st. century. Let’s not forget that “racially” charged terms like these are still widely used in the media in RSA and elsewhere.
Let’s not perpetuate these racist terminologies, particularly in the same blog that mentions Ben Kies and Polly Slingers !
William M.C.Volkwijn
Member of the Human “Race” ! (Aw shucks someone will now chide me for daring to use the word “Race”)!
December 10, 2011 at 9:00 pm
To all the Trafs. bloggers in cyberspace:
It is refreshing to at last see the names of greats like Ben Kies and Polly Slingers in the entries recently, Trafs was the breeding ground of the worthy T.L.S.A. organization to which both my parents proudly belonged. I am still considering forwarding an article for inclusion in
the Centenary publication.
Keep up the good work !
William M.C.Volkwijn
1960
Canada
December 9, 2011 at 11:02 pm
Cliffie………………………his name was Achmat Brown and he lived somewhere around Woodstock.
December 8, 2011 at 7:22 am
Hi All,
I thought I got lucky when downloading phone numbers for the Simmons family two days ago? Thought that Stan Simmons( Warren’s bean pole mate ) my mate from primary school through to Trafs high, was amongst these numbers but to no avail. Will keep trying esp. for you Shereen. Let’s leave Warren & Graeme to play with the Shamgomas,Toor-doctors & slim-mense. Graeme, have you managed to recall the name of the ‘Brown fellah’ that run the 400 metres with us. Was it Aghmat Brown?
Cheers
Cliffy.
December 7, 2011 at 8:59 pm
Does anyone remember a Ms Meredith who taught English in the fifties?
December 5, 2011 at 7:15 pm
Hello Graeme,
The coloured students at UCT received no special favours from the white professors during the apartheid years. They quite literally had to walk in the shoes of Mr Harold Cressy shortly after he was admitted to the B.A. program. I’ve heard stories that some of the white professors treated the coloured students with total contempt during the late 40′s and into the 50′s, perhaps into the 60′s and 70′s as well. Despite meagre resources and literally zero help from the faculty, there were coloured students at UCT who struggled against the odds to achieve something worthwhile.
The UCT coloured maths graduates of that era were definately of the calibre of Mr Cressy . . . they could teach maths with a clarity and thoroughness that was astounding and they earned well deserved recognition. Mr Solly Edross had the makings of a professor of mathematics, as did a few other of his colleagues.
I heard a story from Toronto, Canada that the final year high school students (grade 13 many years ago) who wanted to go on to university, would crowd out the maths classes taught by a handful of coloured UCT grads.
Regards,
Harry
December 5, 2011 at 4:35 am
Harry you jave just solved a small Trafs puzzle which has been occasionally niggling me for decades ! ” Gold Medallist in Maths” you say, well sometimes ( only sometimes) when I use to peep into the classroom on the left before descending the last flight of steps to exit the Trafs building I use to notice Mr Edross teaching white students maths ! This was in the early ’60′s and I did not understand it, now I do,thank you.
December 4, 2011 at 11:57 pm
Hello Fiaza,
I just verification that my dad did on occasion visit Mr Solly Edross on matters that pertained to the TLSA . . . . so he may actually have visited your family home.
During my young years, I lived in an extended family home . . . . our home on Balfour Street, Woodstock, at the time covered the land area of 2-homes. One of the benefits of living in an extended family, there is always companionship. Evening meals were special as the entire family was seated around a very large table.
There was a time when extended families were the norm in the Cape Coloured community. Many of the students who attended Trafs lived in such homes. The extended family environment actually prevented many of the problems that involve children at the present day.
Best,
Harry
December 4, 2011 at 6:14 pm
Hello Faiza,
My dad was indeed acquainted with your uncle, Mr Solly Edross ans his wife, Vona. Your uncle was apparantly a Gold Medalist in Maths at UCT. There is certainly much to be said for the post WW2 coloured graduates who specialize in maths at UCT . . . . they certainly achieved renown for the clarity and thoroughness of instruction.
At the time when your uncle and my dad assisted Ben Kies, Ben drove a green Ford Zephyr.
Regards,
Harry
December 4, 2011 at 9:46 am
Hi Harry,
I was aware of his political affiliations and activities as my uncle, Mr Edross, printed everything at our house and my parents told me about it when I was old enough. Mr Edross was the cartoonist and everything was printed with his Gesteadner machine. Maybe your father also visited our house, but I didn’t have any personal contact with him as with the other teachers.
Regards and keep well.
Faiza
December 3, 2011 at 5:28 pm
Hello Faiza and Shereen,
Mrs Helen Kies (nee Abrahams) attended Trafs as a students when Ben was a teacher . . . except that she was never a student of his, during her time at Trafs. She is now editor of THE TORCH and she may still live at the home at Upper Bloem Street.
For the interest of Trafalgarians, Ben’s nephew the famous neurosurgeon who taught medicine at UCT, (the late) Dr Bryan Kies also attended Trafs . . . I can’t verify whether his younger sister, Denise also attended Trafs.
Cordially,
Harry
December 2, 2011 at 11:39 pm
For all the fans of Ben Kies – It is because of him and Dullah that I was told from the time I started school, at the tender age of 4, that I was going to be a lawyer……..like Bennie Kies, like Dullah Omar……. Never quite got there before being waylaid by the writing bug…..
Many of Snoekie’s students have come on board and we have a dedicated portrait of him by someone……..but Ben Kies, other than the passing references to the great man……….. remains an unknown quantity as far as the centenary publication is concerned ………..
I would be loathe to research and write some impersonal account when there are people out there, including people on this blog, who knew him personally and must have many an anecdote to relate, many a word picture to paint, which will bring the man to life for all Trafalgarians who knew him as a teacher and those who should have been so privileged…………
Ditto the famous Polly Slingers………… everybody mentions him, nobody’s written about him. So come on……….. who out there will do a piece to call the man to life on the page?
December 2, 2011 at 11:27 pm
Dear Faiza,
Just to drive the flower children crazy, I am very willing to wait until you get home for your submission to the centenary publication.
If you could (perhaps on the plane on the long journey home) write about your time at Trafs as a student of the fifties, that should give the fifties section a great boost. I’d also love it, Lady Capulet, if you could write a bit about that famous Romeo and Juliet production…………..oh, so much to look forward to!
Travel safely
December 2, 2011 at 7:25 pm
Hello Ms Faiza Abrahams,
It was interesting that you mentioned Bennie Kies being editor and printer of the TLSA publication, the TORCH. On many occasions when my family lived on Balfour Street, my dad (Bill Valentine who taught at HCHS) frequently assisted him. Perhaps you may be aware that Mr Kies was quite a political firebrand to set ears ringing several years prior to your matriculation, when he address a TLSA convention . . . several teachers who were in attendance at that meeting quite literally could not believe their ears!.
Best Regards,
Harry Valentine
December 2, 2011 at 2:47 pm
How’s this for a serious effort at my Olympic event: You flower children of the Sixties have done a great job of covering that dangerous and important decade from a lot of different angles. And still you guys keep coming with fresh perspectives. I just wish the Nineties would catch up or the Noughties would put in anything, else we are fated to be dominated by baby boomers!
December 2, 2011 at 1:08 pm
I feel so dirty, so used, so soiled.
Wild about Harry, huh? I think you’re in for a bit of a letdown. He’s a Cressyite for Gawdsake! There was more intellectual rigour across the road. But, see if we care!
December 2, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Dear Warren and Graeme,
The Olympics take place here next year and I think that gatkruip is one of the events. I am training for the gold medal….
Having tried out my initial skills on you Sixties Trafalgarians, I now need to try harder people……….. Sorry boys……….. you were soooooo easy! But all the people I need to fill the gaps are more of a challenge………. Harry will hone my skills I think………….
December 2, 2011 at 9:45 am
Thanks you guys are keeping this blog alive with your humour and `sarcasm’ Such a competitive bunch but I am entertained!.
December 2, 2011 at 8:44 am
Yeah, Graeme, Shereen’s crawling did not go unnoticed, it almost borders on sycophancy. nauseating stuff. Maa’ ek se maa’ niks .. just in case she pulls the plug on my magnum opus.
On another matter all Trafalgarians, I spoke with Trafs principal Nadeem Hendricks on Tuesday and he — again — said the new school website will be going up any day now. He also said that two weeks ago. But, everything is relative. He did say it is an exciting body of work with pages devoted to five-year periods “and hundreds of photos”.
I am pressing him for a definitive statement on centenary celebrations, the timing of which is vital for people who live outside of Cape Town. If my parole officer allows me, I may be able to go. But it is a big maybe.
Stay tuned — and Harry, enjoy the pet status while it lasts. I too was once flavour of the month with “teacher”. Now I am the ‘gofer”.
December 2, 2011 at 8:11 am
Faiza here,
My son got your message today. I was, actually, born into the Trafalgar family. My uncle, Mr Edross, lived in the same house and therefore, I knew all his friends (Trafs teachers), who were my “uncles and aunts”. Snoekie, Ms Fisher and Bennie Kies, all visited as he was the editor/printer of TLSA newspaper, The Torch. I can still remember Mr Kies bringing me a BIG easter egg because I’d said the Lord’s Prayer for him when I was in Sub A – and he was an atheist. I matriculated in 1957, so I’ll try to write about that time at Trafs.
The Juliet you’re referring to is Ayesha Peck. I was teaching there at the time and played the role of Lady Capulet.
Another ex-Trafs student and Teacher is Ms Goliath who turned 80 April. I did contact her and she was quite excited about the whole set up,
I leave for SA on Thursday (8th), so will only be able to contact you once I get home.
December 2, 2011 at 7:47 am
Hey Warren, notice how long it took Shereen to hook into Harry ! Trafalgarian ( and Warren ) n.b. that Harry is teacher’s pet now ! Note the comment which is directed at Harry ” I can arrange an exceptional deadlinefor your copy to reachme …………” We NEVER received such lenient treatment Harry, mate , haloop moenie om kyk nie ! Bask in this lovely, warm, considerate , Shereen ambience while it lasts. We were told ” your deadline is…………….and if it’s not submitted then……..” How things change ! Harry you’re not alone, my wife is an ex Cressyhite as well as my sister and her husband ( circa 1961 graduates.) Warren , also note the message to Faiza ” so no pressure there then ….” So smoothe mate, we were whipped !
Harry I simply just love you quotation about skel and marriage. It is soo Cape Town and original. Warren, note that Harry stated that he learned so much from Trafalgarians ( not necessarilly from those who were cloistered in the ” a ” class!)
Harry, thank you, do keep your comments coming it makes me smile. Also , you are most welcome at our 2012 Trafalgar Centenary Celebrations ( Warren will pay for you and your partner!)
December 2, 2011 at 3:48 am
Hello Warren, Shereen and All,
Many thanks for the welcome. And yes, I did a brief stint at Cressy where I actually got away with playing a prank. I attended 3-primary and 3-high schools. Right up to the end of the old Std 7, dad was personally acquainted with every principal and every teacher at the schools I attended . . . similiar situation between Warren and Mr Solly Edross (I knew Mrs Vona Edross and daughters Selma and Leila).
He assisted in the activities of the TLSA and the NEUM . . and many personalities associated with both groups regularly visited out home at 89 Balfour Street in Walmer Estate. And Shereen was correct . . . visitors were always offered tea, coffee, cake, biscuits etc. Dad certainly knew how to entertain and make visitors feel welcome.
During my preschool years, I was exposed to many political debates involving personalities such as Ben Kies (taught at Trafs) . . . he was quite the orator. Other Trafs TLSA political activists we knew included Mr Polly Slingers (he started a Christmas club after being banned, while Ben Kies become an attorney after being banned).
We also knew Ernie Steenveld (son Michael and daughter Lynette), while Miss Dean was practically “part of the family”.
Though I never attended Trafs, I knew many of the teachers and learnt much from them.
Harry
harrycv@hotmail.com
December 2, 2011 at 3:21 am
Hello Warren,
For your interest, I met your uncle Lennie Moerat and his daughter Leonie. I recall that she got married soon after completing high school. I recall another Trafs teacher, Miss Marjorie Dean who was a close family friend. I also recall one of the fine ladies who taught at Trafs giving some marraige advice many years ago to a group of young ladies, “As jy weet nie hoe om reg te skel, dan is it te vroeg om vir jou te trou!.
Harry
December 1, 2011 at 11:09 pm
Faiza, I hope you are still checking this blog, because it’s my only way of reaching you.
You belong in that band of Trafalgarians, like one of my brothers, who came back to teach at the school. Won’t you write a piece for the centenary publication from that perspective? ie Why you – and so very many others – returned to Trafs to teach there?
I know that you are having a lovely family visit in Oz, but perhaps you could find an hour or so in the coming week? (So no pressure there, then).
Let me know via this blog, or on laattb@aol.com
Regards
Shereen
December 1, 2011 at 10:43 am
See what I mean, Harry? Our dear blog – leader, Warren. So gemaak en so gelaat staan. But what would we do without him?
If you’ve got some interesting thoughts that you could work up into a piece of around 400-500 words, about the TLSA luminaries who visited your home, could I have it in the next fortnight………… or so?
December 1, 2011 at 5:37 am
Harry,
Nice to see you on the blog and I see they’re rolled the welcome mat out for you. That’s just the way we Trafalgarians are even if you (perchance) went to Cressy. Some people have their crosses to bear, I see you have yours. I see the delightful Ms Pandit has invited you to write a piece for the Trafs publication. A Cressyite writing in our august publication. What is the world coming to! Next thing we’ll be asking the people from across the road from Cressy to contribute. But welcome anyway.
December 1, 2011 at 1:13 am
I do, indeed, want to hear from you Harry.
I assume you went to Cressy? If so, I am surprised Warren didn’t say rude things to you. He must be tired.
Two ex-Cressyites have generously offered articles on two famous Trafalgarians who are the subjects of their respective studies. This may horrify people like Warren, who never ceases to be astounded at my being married to a Cressyite, but the fact of the matter is that Trafs and Trafalgarians engendered admiration even from those folks at “the other place.”
So, would you like to write an anecdotal piece about all these TLSA luminaries and their meetings over koe’siesters en koffie at your house? With special emphasis on the Trafs people, of course, given the nature of the publication. If so, I can arrange an exceptional deadline for your copy to reach me……..
Only, for god’s sake don’t mention the C word. The entire deceased section of the TLSA will turn in its grave – and those alive will have you guts (that’s my polite term for some other part of your anatomy entirely) for garters. We were pupils at schools, not “C” pupils at “C” schools.
November 30, 2011 at 9:19 am
Harry Valentine…………………………gee whiz, what a wealth of outstanding information you are ! Welcome aboard and I daresay that Shereen Pandit would not want to have an extended conversation with you ??? As you may have already noticed , Cynthia Fisher’s pic does appear on this blog. Once again, nice to hear from you Harry.
November 29, 2011 at 9:57 pm
Correction . . . her name was Cynthia, nor Thelma
November 29, 2011 at 9:25 pm
Always good to read the history of Cape Town coloured schools. My dad taught at Cressy and during the late 50′s, our family home was like a 2nd staff room for the TLSA teachers who taught at Trafs, Cressy and Livingstone. Trafts teaching luminaries like Ben Kies (with his wife Helen), Ron Vogt and Thelma Fisher were regular visitors to our home.
Of interest, “the doctor” who was instrumental in the founding of Trafs, was well acquainted with a certain M.K. Gandhi who left SA just prior to the official opening of Trafs. He knew the saga of the first principal of Trafs, Mr Harold Cressy who taught the doctor’s daughter who was one of the first coloured girls to obtain a masters level degree at UCT. During the late 50′s, she represented District Six on the Cape Town City Council.
All the Best to all who studied at Trafs,
Harry Valentine
November 20, 2011 at 2:39 pm
PS Graeme – just googled Neville A again and yes I was right, he went to varsity in CT and belonged to TLSA et al, but he taught at Livingstone and he schooled where he was brought up in the Eastern Cape.
I knew him in Ithe eighties through our mutual involvement in the Disorderly Bill Action Committee, formed to fight the Koornhof Bills, through the Cape Action League and in the National Forum – but not as a former teacher, the way I knew Snoekie and others who introduced me to SPEF, CAFEF et al.
Pity, that.
November 20, 2011 at 2:28 pm
Hi Graeme,
Mickey Peake (daughter of George) lives in London and has already sent in her piece which mentions both her (now deceased) father’s experience at Trafs and her own.
Dr Kenneth and Mrs Ottilie Abrahams sent an excellent piece each. Barney Desai would have been a good idea. I think his daughter-in-law works with my husband but unfortunately Barney has died. This is why it was so good of Ottilie and Kenneth to respond. The fifties people – there aren’t that many of them left.
Was Neville at Trafs? Shucks, how did I miss that? I followed the trails of just about every politico from NEUM days that I could find……….. and a thousand others. A lot of them proved to be people that I got to know well in my own activist days, but hadn’t realized had been raised and schooled elsewhere in SA.
I have also reached out to Reggie September, who is frail, but has an energetic wife who offered to help get his piece in. Basil February’s brother Terry is writing a piece about his brother. There are several others I’ve contacted repeatedly without success……….. But, it’s all coming together – hopefully in time.
The struggle continues. ……………Cliffie, won’t you write to me? Still waiting to hear whether I can use your story………..
November 19, 2011 at 9:45 am
Remember now Warren, it’s not what you do, it’s how you do it !
I had a phone call from Freddie Vollenhoven, Cliffie he has been trying to contact you.Freddie mentioned these people ( thinking caps on people)….Marshall….a 440 yd super athlete and I think that he progressed to Hewat ? George Peak (e) ..he says that Mr Ludski snr knew George ( ex Trafs.) George’s daughter also attended Trafs..Kenny Abrahams who married Tillie Shimming ( sp?) Neville Alexander and Karl Brekker (at Cressy High later as a teacher)….. Trafs connection. These were Queen Street,Walmer Estate personalities !How about Barney Desai,writer,editor married someone’s sister by the name of Rose ?Warren……..any thoughts here ? Evidently Joseph Stalin Ludski knew someone here ?? I tried to call Stalin but his phone rang out.These were personalities from the late ’50′s ?? These were also politically active people…
November 18, 2011 at 10:51 pm
Warren, didn’t you learn at Trafs that if a job is worth doing, it’s worth doing properly? I think that includes grovelling – please hand me my Olympic gold for this event.
November 18, 2011 at 12:19 pm
As grovels go, this one is right up there with the best of them Graeme. Enjoy it while you can.
November 18, 2011 at 12:05 pm
Graeme,
Profound apologies. And huge thanks.
I pride myself on responding to email almost at once, but I note that I didn’t respond to yours. Sorry – had a long day at hospital on 14h when your mail came in and therefore missed out on saying how grateful I am for the info – just fell around covering all the other bases I’d missed out on that day………….Sorry….. just assumed next day that I’d dealt with correspondence of 14th.
I did, however, cheeky me, go on to use the info -tumbling over myself to make long calls to CT whilst remembering the time difference is now 2 hours not 1. Had a long chat with Ruth one day, followed by mails and then a long chat to Bavasah and a couple of legal eagles. Last night it was a few people from the seventies…………. All very productive.
I will get round to all the others, but each call with introductions (if strangers to me) or catch up (if I’ve last seen them 10-30 years ago) takes 30-60 minutes and then I find that it’s too late to reasonably call the next on my list. I have to be careful of other people’s lives and schedules………….
C’est la vie.
I will get to Herman……. and the rest. Maybe even today…….. when I get through doing preparatory baking and cooking for a dinner for 40 Palestinian students and their UK escorts………… which apparently I offered to do some months ago when the last batch came through………………
I hope my oversight won’t put you off keeping the info coming.
November 18, 2011 at 9:54 am
Warren you’re brilliant! All this bantering keeps me laughing and looking forward to the next posting. Your memory of `die Kaapse lingo’ is still up to scratch.
Are you planning to be in CT March next year? (Are they still planning for March?)
November 18, 2011 at 9:35 am
Hi Graeme Thanks, I appreciate the way you’re managing me. Even if I wanted to change my mind I don’t feel I have room to do so.
Seriously though, your enthusiasm and efforts are inspirational.
Harold phoned me so there is bound to be progress.
He likes the idea of our own side event for the class of ’64
November 18, 2011 at 9:33 am
Graeme, now if only Cliffie can use his skills long distance so that he can put a hex on “She who must be obeyed” over in London to make her less demanding. If that doesn’t work, I’m going to call in a couple of favour with people who practise alternative therapies — a doekum, a tokoloshe and a slim man and slim vrou who happen to be in a de facto relationship. The doekum has had experience as a locum in Bonteheuwel.
Otherwise, we’re screwed because Shereen is relentless.
And spell my name wrongly again and none of your messages gets approved. I played hardball in the Sixties with “Mango” Abrahams. I can do it again.
PS: Miriam, if your homework ain’t in by the end of the day, you’ll be doing time in the dungeon!
November 18, 2011 at 8:45 am
Loodski (Warren)……..I notice that Cliffie has gone out of his way inorder to help you. This course in hypnotherapy which he has completed should allow him to place you in a more receptive and co-operative plain / chakra or disposition. I have completed a basic Reiki course and I should be able to balance your energy field ! So, there you are mate, we can cure you of your past life transgressions which haunt you.
Shereen, did you receive those contacts and phone number which I sent you about a week ago.
I received an email from Harold Herman who hopes to post a message soon and he may have some good news for us……..
Miriam is on the brink of submitting her homework………………..
November 16, 2011 at 10:07 am
Warren, Ryan – the thing I miss most since I’ve left CT is that particular form of verbal jousting, teasing and poking fun that only Kaapies do to one another and understand. I go home to CT for a dose every year. I come back here laughing and I go on laughing at memories for months. So, to find people here on this website who “Gat aan” as they say in the Dorp, is just great.
Warren – if Bavasah could split my personality and history into a few dozen, or add the traits of two sisters and a cousin and average them then allocate a third to me – heck, I’ll spell the good man’s name any way I like – unless HE doesn’t like, as a matter of historical accuracy……………..
I declare all of the above said in pure jest!
Will pass your and all other messages to him when I see him. Can’t wait. Am tempted to gather all other Trafalgarians I can find in London and nearby to have a mini-reunion once I know he’s coming……………………
November 16, 2011 at 7:24 am
I’d check on his mens sana in corpore sano judging by that conversation with you. And you can mention that to him when you meet him. He should remember me after all the grief I gave him in the Latin class. And then he upped a married one of the prettiest (and quietest) girls in my class. the Jainodien girl if my fading memory serves me correctly.
It looks like you did bunk a few of his classes Shereen. You can’t even spell his name properly. Shame on you. It’s Bavasah. And don’t you forget it. I never get people’s names wrong, ain’t that right Graham!
November 16, 2011 at 7:11 am
Funny that, Ryan … I actually have a T-shirt that I was given for my birthday that reads “Sarcasm is one of the services that I offer”. And if you don’t belive me, I’ll post it on the blog. Unfortunatey, that is me. I actually don’t call it sarcasm. To me, it is just humour. I indulge in humour, even of the self-deprecatory kind. I just cannot, for the love of me, take myself — and anyone else for that matter (including the just recently acquainted Pandit person and my long-standing sparring partner GRAHAM Samuels. That’s just the way I roll. You wandered in to my space and I embraced you and your ilk. As my son would say, “Build a bridge, Dad, build a bridge…” Until I have that humour bypass operation … you’re going to have to cop it sweet as we say in Australia. And dish it out if you like. I hope you hang around.
November 15, 2011 at 11:47 pm
You will all be pleased to know that I had a long chat with Mr Bevassah today. He was still the same old same old – friendly, chatty, full of great bits of history and solid political views.
He is fully willing to participate in the centenary publication and encourage others to do so, but says that his health is not what it was so he doesn’t know how much he can do.
Health permitting, he will be in London (UK) in a month or so (geez, the heart of Winter – though I suppose Jan/Feb would be worse) and we hope to get together then. Actually, given how many jumpers and coats he always wore, he should be fine…..
Some of the “old guard” whom I’ve spoken to are in much the same boat….. health-wise………… though some are still more mentally spruce than a lot of the young ones………….HB being one of the mentally spruce variety.
The meeting should be a lot of fun, if the phone call was anything to go by:
“Yes, I remember all the Pandits – there was one who was quite clever …”
(sorry, don’t know her)
“And then there was the one who became a lawyer”
(not guilty, your honour!)
“And then there was the one who was quite active politically”
(don’t look at me!”)
“And I think there was another one who did……….”
(wasn’t me sir, wasn’t me sir, wasn’t me, sir!!!……..)
“And all the girls – they were very nice looking”
(Well, that DEFINITELY wasn’t me, Sir – now about the publication………)
“Yes, about Trafalgar………the history of Trafalgar could be said to be…….”
(Aha! let’s go, Sir!)
“Were you that Pandit girl who…………..”
(Shriek! Sir! No! I’m the Pandit girl who bunked Latin for your History classes and went on to read all the books you wrote up on the board. I’m still working my way through some of them 3 decades later! Now, about the centenary publication………..)
I am looking forward to a long afternoon by my fireside or wandering the South Bank of the Thames, living up to or divesting myself of a dozen personae.
For the record, there were only three of us “Pandit girls” – to my knowledge, he had no contact with the two pretty ones, who were in the B class, though he obviously had a keen eye on them. I will content myself by being or not being all of the others, as the mood takes the great man.
It was a joy talking to him.
November 15, 2011 at 6:23 am
Warren I have noticed a lot of sarcasm coming from you. I hope you know “sarcasm is the lowest form of wit” and that not everyone will find the need to write or add comments of their decade to your blog. It’s a wonderful contribution for Trafalgar, but their better ways in getting information from them other than using sarcasm.
November 15, 2011 at 1:29 am
Hello all my pallies from Trafs,
Apologies for my silence over the last few weeks. Been away studying ( Yeah Yeah ) still at it. Pushing some boundaries in the Hypnotherapy field. Im finishing my course soon and maybe find some time getting back here. Sorrie manna vannie kaap.
Cliffie
November 14, 2011 at 8:27 pm
PS. Ludski – what the heck kind of dogs do you have Down Under? Or is it that you don’t feed the poor animal?
PPS Somebody just sent me a great anecdotal article, which includes an episode of a teacher (yes, at Trafs, circa sixties) coming to school one Monday, minus false teeth, which, apparently, the dog had eaten……….
I repeat – didn’t she feed the poor dog?
November 14, 2011 at 8:23 pm
Right, Ludski, you and I have been called on this, mate.
Got an article from the 90′s today – and be prepared to eat your words. It was a fine piece from a woman with a lot of thoughts in her head, a deal of passion for Trafs – and a particular flourish with the keyboard when she sets thought and passion down. No textspeak, no twittering and none of that misspelt Facebook gumph. She can write and write well – a fair challenge to the previous decades.
But one swallow doth not a Summer make…………… so, the challenge remains.
And oh, ye children of this new century…………. have you never heard the words “Haal uit en wys?” Guess none of you grew up in the Dorp, took a bus to town and trekked up that hill as the siren wailed across D6.
By the way, Trafs used to be a family school – generation after generation sent their kids to the school they’d been through. As people from the seventies onwards touch base with me, it seems that so many of their kids go to schools I’ve never heard of, except as being out of bounds, sometimes waaaayyyyy out of bounds, for the likes of us…………. Is that because they all live in areas that used to be out of bounds for the likes of us? And have jobs that used to be out of bounds for the likes of us? And earn money that used to be out of bounds for the likes of us? And has Trafs just become too downmarket for them?
Ooopppss! Careful, Shereen. Politics of envy accusation looms!!
For the avoidance of which – I’m only asking………….
November 14, 2011 at 1:44 pm
Notice to all and sundry .. I have handed in my revised article and, yes, I know it was late but I have a good excuse for Teacher Pandit. The dog ate my computer.
As for Ms pandits remark about the absence of contributions from the Nineties and the Noughties, all I can say is maybe we should be thankful for small mercies.
Can you imagine articles from that era. It could be a bloody nightmare. It could go along the lines of: “Hd a gr8 tim at Trfs. Tchers wre so kul! Everything wz so random (lol) and when Raaafique (correct sp) broke his leg trying to catch his his fone, it was fully sick. (ROTFLMFAO).
Hey, I’m just calling it as I sees it, Ryan. Prove me wrong, you guys from the Nineties and the Noughties. There’s a space to fill on my blog — and even more spaces to to fill in Shereen’s publication. But it will require sentences longer than “yes” and ‘no” which is a feature of the Trafalgar’s Facebook page.
November 14, 2011 at 1:15 am
tsk, tsk. Warren! Aren’t you meant to set an example to the young folk? First you encourage them to hand in things late, then you harass Graeme and now it’s verging on cyber sticking out of tongues! Honestly! Didn’t you serve enough detention at Trafs?
Or were you in that class Snoekie marched around the school for an entire period to show the whole school that 10A behaves like children and will be treated as such. God, the old man must have been the “mo.***…in” that day! We never found out what it was they did – I’m sure it must have been you, Warren, leading your class “op sleep tou”.
Anyway – let me tell all of you from the nineties and noughties – none of whom have let me have as much as a comma – every decade which still has live Trafalgarians in it is covered – except yours. Even the friends and family corner, the in memoriam section – they’ve got a few pieces in.
The gauntlet has been well and truly flung down – pick it up, why don’t you? I’m prepared to extend the deadline to the end of this month – just for you. Get your skates on before I mix more metaphors.
November 11, 2011 at 11:18 am
Graham -Shmaham. Didn’t see you complaining when Ms Pundit spelt my name incorrectly!
November 11, 2011 at 7:59 am
Warren would you correct the spelling of my name in the top of this page from the Pommie spelling of Graham, to the more sophisticated name of Graeme. Thank you.
Also, you forgot to include our Trafalgarian brothers , sisters and teachers of the ’80′s in the new layout ! Thanks mate.
November 10, 2011 at 12:33 pm
Careful now, there’s still time for an injunction to stop publication. You’d be well advised to refrain from ridiculing my efforts.
November 10, 2011 at 12:06 pm
Oh joy! We have Wise Warren’s words at last!!
November 9, 2011 at 12:36 pm
PS Can’t speak for the rest of the Seventies, Warren, but I think the postings on the following website speak for me (as just a sample of what my year could produce):
http://shereenpandit.bookslive.co.za/
November 9, 2011 at 12:33 pm
Ryan, thanks for understanding. Good of you. And by all means, lol.
Graeme, don’t take any notice of nasty Warren. It’s just envy because he can’t write as well as you can, which is why he’s delaying sending his stuff in.
And Warren, any more mouthing off from you and I’ll send my daughter after you when she visits down under soon – she may not be schooled at Trafs, but she’s taught East End kids with “behavioural difficulties” so handling you should be a schlepp……….. That homework tomorrow or I send her after you. ………..
November 9, 2011 at 10:08 am
Homework? Hand in? Moi? You must be kidding. I have en enviable record at Trafs for not handing in homework on time. Us “gifted students” , who parsed Ovid and Cicero, we never worried too much about homework. I was declared an habitual offender like those people in Roeland Street who were just a rung above the low-life across the road at Cressy. I did my time in the dungeons ..I can handle anyting the Pandit woman throws at me. Aaaw what the hell, I’ll hand it in tomorrow.
Apropos the 70s, 80, and 90s page .. lets see what those great thinkers of those generations — the Pandits, Busby’s and the like come up with. I can provide the page. Can they provide the content? I’d love to run a check over their nouns and verbs and their syntax!
November 9, 2011 at 7:31 am
@ Shereen lol to your phobia. Don’t worry I understand and will not wait all my life lol. Just glad everything is coming along well with the book and that Warren’s blog is being used for a good purpose. @ Graeme good of you to hand in your piece. I have asked the Ex-Trafalgarians group members to contribute to the book and hope they have. Some pics have come in on our group and hope they have forwarded it on to you.
November 9, 2011 at 7:19 am
Warren, this page “Trafalgar High School , Cape Town in the ’60′s” is great and has served us well to date especially in getting Trafalgarians in touch. I looked at it last night and have also been wondering how we could attract more ex Trafalgarians to participate and this came to mind. How about possibly leaving this page as is for now and maybe think about introducing more pages like these on this general blog ? For instance, another page could be headed as “Trafalgar High School in the ’70′s” and “Trafalgar High School in the ’80′s” and ” Trafalgar High School In The ’90′s” and so forth.In so doing maybe the different genre of students can possibly identify more with these pages and develop some owhership of said as well as we have done . ??????
Oh and Warren, Shereen are in the loop ESPECIALLY after I submitted my homework. Have you ??
November 9, 2011 at 7:10 am
Good for an early morning laught – that was funny Warren. Takes one right back to those classroom days! Graeme still is a very obliging fellow.
November 8, 2011 at 9:22 pm
Ain’t Graeme such a goody-two-shoes … handing in his homework on time. Did he email an apple for Miss too. I remember him being like that at school too. We always wanted to get him out the back there at the woodwork room to straighten him out but he stayed close to the staff room always eager to run errands for the teachers.
November 8, 2011 at 2:55 pm
Graeme – thanks. It is nice to be appreciated. And thanks for the article too. Check your email and see whether you agree with the edits. Great job, mate.
November 8, 2011 at 2:47 pm
Ryan, you will wait all your life.
I avoid social networks like the plague. I find it frightening, the amount of stuff about me which is available online – and I just don’t want to add to it. TMI . If I could remove myself from the grid completely, I would – but it’s as if one cannot live just on the solid earth.
For me to join Warren’s site took a huge battle against my cyberspace phobias. It seems that anyone can write what they like about one – there are even wikipedia pages in German and Czech on me which make me want to run and hide…….
Perhaps I will come to Facebook,as I eventually did to mobile phones, but in the meantime, I rely on my family and friends to do the networking for me.
You offered help (thank you) so here’s what you can do for me: when people respond to your Facebook appeal for written submissions to the centenary publication, give them the following email: laattb@aol.com – not the one that NH so freely flings around……………
Many thanks
Shereen
November 8, 2011 at 10:42 am
Warren – what’s driving me insane is the fact that I don’t have your revamped article yet. Boo-hoo!
Despite all the activity on this site from the Sixties, the only completed piece in, is Graeme’s great one (Pat goes into the teachers’ slot, not sixties alumni). If I get Cliffy’s permission, that makes two from the Sixties, because I can’t count you in yet, Ludski, until it’s completed and in its folder on my computer.
Also – all you alumni from the 90′s and post 2000 – are you not going to challenge the oldies for space in the publication at all?
Ryan, do you think you could get these alumni on board? I’d be very grateful. I don’t want it to seem that Trafalgar’s great traditions stopped in 1990!
November 8, 2011 at 10:31 am
Warren , I have had a look at the Trafs website and I dread to tell you that they have caught up with you mate. They now have a ” absence hotline !” Your gaes up !
November 8, 2011 at 8:34 am
Shereen, there is nothing wrong with good, clean hard work…..as long as you do it you know. Yeah, I know I’m all heart.Leaving assingments to this last minute is very rewarding because the rush of adrenaline is simply awesome. Yes, Harold Herman and I are related, fear not.You are doing so well, Warren will not say but I will ( it’s a generational thing you know) we ARE proud of all you and your efforts what with bubs tugging at your skirt, cooking with the one hand and editing our late submissions. You are a real trooper.
November 8, 2011 at 7:11 am
Thanks Ryan, I hope it hits the Mark. Can you make a few calls on your side and see whether the school’s website has gone live as Nadeem promised. It would be much appreciated.
November 8, 2011 at 6:52 am
Warren I like the new page “Trafalgar High School Centenary Celebrations — Comments sought”. I just wish that all Trafalgarians can keep this bond together, and keep in contact, with all the social networks available today. Shereen I am glad to see that things are in full steam and I can’t wait to read the book next year.
November 8, 2011 at 4:53 am
The only driving that one should apply to you is ” driving us insane” with these infernal requests and ridiculous deadlines. But I suppose it is all for the greater good.
November 8, 2011 at 1:07 am
Thanks for the new page, Warren. Ooohhh – I do so like being a “driving force”. Must find a way to work that into my CV.
November 8, 2011 at 12:03 am
Thanks, Graeme.
I received 2 articles from that decade today, though I have considered asking Harold Herman (is he really your neef, or is that just a manner of speaking? ).
A while ago I also received a piece from Dr Sedick Isaacs, whose arrest whilst teaching at Trafs you so vividly recalled in your article. Now I have both his (inside) view and your (outside) one. Sedick was both a student (class of 58) and a teacher at Trafs! So I have at least 3 excellent pieces from that decade, though more would be good.
So, re Herman: Send me his email when you can. Personal email (to my email please, not on here) is surer than going through his workplace – he is emeritus prof so he is probably only on campus on the odd occasion.
I received so many articles today, that I was wondering whether there was a rule at Trafs that made it obligatory to hand work in a week late – b…y h…ll ! did I miss out on that?
Or maybe it’s just “Kaapse tyd”?
Whatever it is, today’s load gives me hope of more in the future – though not on the eve of going to press, please, all you lovely Trafalgarians out there!!
November 7, 2011 at 12:53 pm
Shereen we waiting for you to join us on the Facebook group Ex-Trafalgarians. The same applies to everyone on this blog. Thank you.
November 7, 2011 at 4:36 am
Shereen if you need input from those who attended Trafs in the late 1950′s try my ou neef,Harold Herman , Former Dean of Education and then Prof. of Comparative and International Education at Uni of Western Cape. Winston Kloppers and him lectured together.
November 6, 2011 at 11:29 pm
I would apologize for the typo, Warren, but (sob!) typing at a computer situated in the midst of rubble (UK workmen don’t pick up or clear up after doing a job), household goods waiting to go back to their places, etc. is not easy. You are such a hard man.
Who are those blokes you were going to send around? If I insult you again will you promise to send them?
The only reason I peep at my mail and this site, is for a giggle in the midst of the booorrrrriinnggg housework. Not even a 90 minute Poirot on radio 4 could provide the light relief of good old Kaapse humour.
November 6, 2011 at 9:52 pm
…and you’re well out of order … calling me weird. I’d sue for big bucks if I could find a good lawyer. But finding a good lawyer is like trying to find a good writer. They’re as rare as hen’s teeth. And spell my name wrong again and I’ll get some of the boys from the Railton Rd massive to call around and give you a right sorting out. And fancy saying “pretty please” to a bloke you’ve never met. Have you no dignity woman!
November 6, 2011 at 8:33 pm
Cliffy – won’t you please look at one of my messages above, asking if I can use your boots story? And making a few other related requests?
Please say yes – soon. Oooops!! That looks well weird. Weird enough for weird Warrent to make something out of me asking a bloke pretty please!!
November 5, 2011 at 8:21 am
I have just had an hour long conversation with Albert Hess. He is well and is still running marathons in Cape Town. He too has numerous pics of Trafs reunions.
November 4, 2011 at 10:13 am
Graeme
I replied in detail (email) last night. Sorry, it was about 2am here before I hit that part of a huge to do list. Please check your mail and we can chat on email or on phone. The pics were a bit indistinct, but with modern technology, I am sure that someone who knows about these things can be found, so that we can use your treasures to best advantage.
Thank you so much for them – and for your recollections.
Must abandon Trafs for at least part of today to pack up all contents of kitchen cupboards and god knows what else, because the boiler man arrives tomorrow to take apart the house to replace the boiler and our central heating system in preparation for a long and bitter Winter…………. life must go on outside Trafs for at least a weekend……………
But Cliffy – need a response from you to notes sent to you above………… when you can???
November 4, 2011 at 5:26 am
Shereen , yesterday I sent my “homework” to you plus about thirty-three pics, as I have not received an acknowledgement does this mean that you have not received said ?
Warren I was speaking with Magdalene O’Brien and she made reference to ( you know, that class.)
Ryan, it would be nice if you guys could find time to share your Trafs experiences with Shereen and us.
Cedric you stated that you have some Trafs re-union pics, is it possible to share these with us by posting it to Warren-on this site ?
I spoke with Cliffie this week and he said that he had made contact with Mary Cloete ( now Barrendilla.)
I hope to chat with Albert Hess this weekend.
November 3, 2011 at 4:53 pm
It’s OK, Ryan. He’s only pulling our legs. He’s a nice, respectful guy, really, our Warren – and kind enough to let me use this site for the publication requests. Plus, he and his mates keep me sane.
Meantime, thanks for the offer of help which you’ve extended. Hope it reaps benefits.
November 3, 2011 at 1:47 pm
Hi Warren it’s nice to see the Trafalgarians from the sixties getting in contact again. Please don’t refer to people a “that” eg.: “that Pandit woman” and “that erudite Gen X-ers and Gen Y’s”. In my opinion it shows little respect for the next.
November 3, 2011 at 11:24 am
It warms the cockles of my heart to see old friends make contact again. This blog is is staring to make waves. Now, if only that Pandit woman can keep a civil tongue in her head and … she’ll get all the copy she needs from that erudite Gen X-ers and Gen Ys that’s hooked up with on Facebook.
November 3, 2011 at 10:56 am
Hi Graeme,
Dankie my pal for tracing ( Like an under-cover agent) Freddie for me. After we spoke I gave him a call and what a talk it turned out to be. Like you, I haven’t spoken or seen Freddie for many years. We will keep in touch and need to recall our trip to Jo’burg representing our school on the WP team. Thanks mate.
Cliffy
November 3, 2011 at 9:31 am
Well guys , just to let you know that I have at long last submitted my ” homework ” to Shereen AND it was not painfull.
How are you going with your rememberances of Trafs ?
November 3, 2011 at 12:57 am
Yaseen and Ryan (and everyone else in case I haven’t already said this):
Thanks for the offers of help and help it will have to be – as in “you do it , please”, because………………
I’m not quite a Luddite, as note my (very basic) use of a computer. …………
However………..
I am still unable to get the hang of texting, twittering (oops! did I mean tweeting i.e. going like a bird, not like David Cameron’s wife?) and generally tootling around the technosphere a.k.a cyberspace……………
So, I shall leave it to you to sail forth into that blue yonder (is cyberspace blue, I wonder?) and gather up all the Trafalgarians I haven’t been able to reach. (Another oops! That makes you sound like the Heineken advert – reaching the parts other beers just don’t get to! Sorry!).
What I mean is – yes, please. Face everyone on your book and tell them that the one part of cyberspace I regularly inhabit, is the bit where laattb is located, so bring on the writing, the photos, the artwork, the poetry……………
and………..
Soon…………….please…………say by the end of next week?
Shucks – it’s the middle of the night, I’ve just come off joining the 21st century Jarrow marches against unemployment, feeding the masses, and then doing some rabble-rousing. Do forgive the wondrous wanderings………….. comes from trying to delay writing my report on the evening…………..
November 2, 2011 at 12:45 pm
Hi Shereen, I got your email from Mr. Hendricks the current Principal (Headmaster) of Trafalgar High School. From googling around for news on Trafalgar to stumble on this forum, thank’s to Warren. I hope you don’t mind but I have asked our ’239′ members of the Facebook group “Ex-Trafalgarians” http://www.facebook.com/groups/2373368477/ to correspond to you with any assistance for you magazine via the email address laattb@aol.com. To all the Trafalgarians in this forum, you are all more than welcome to join the Facebook group “Ex-Trafalgarians”. I just love technology and social networking.
November 2, 2011 at 12:38 pm
Dear Shireen: Thanks for excellent work being done. There are a whole bunch of Generation X and Y people most of whom matriculated in the 80′s and 90′s that can be reached in this facebook group.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/2373368477/?notif_t=group_activity
November 1, 2011 at 9:35 am
Guess what ?
I have just had a long conversation with Freddie Vollenhoven whom Cliffie February referred to in his story. The last time I conversed with Freddie was when we left Trafs.
HOPEFULLY Freddie will respond on this site.
October 31, 2011 at 10:26 pm
Dear all,
So, the first deadline has come and gone. We’ve got some lovely writing in, but could do with some more. The seventies, surprisingly, are thin on the ground. This century has no representation at all yet. So, if you have know anyone from the seventies, if you have children or grandchildren at Trafs this century, then do please urge them to send me some of their writing. In hope of receiving these, I am extending the deadline to 14th November.
October 29, 2011 at 11:18 pm
Just been over the story, tidying it up for publication, Cliffy. Do you think you could confirm for me whether it was in fact 1963 and also could I have the following, if you agree to let me publish this little tale of yours:
1. A snapshot of yourself as you are now – and one of Freddy if you find him (passport size will do)
2. Pics of you, or your football team, or you and Freddy then – anything like that, do your best
3. A couple of lines of what you’ve done since then and what you do now (literally just a few words will do)
This is the stuff Trafs was made of. Well done, you!
Another story of the staff’s generosity:
When I was in std 9, it was announced in assembly that the staff was looking for lodgings for a boy in the Afrikaans class. Apparently, he was from a rural area and they’d been boarding him with a local family. With the clearance of D6, he would be homeless. We were all to go home and ask our parents whether they had room for this boy and the staff would go on maintaining him. I immediately said, no problem, tell him to fetch his stuff and he can come home with me. My parents didn’t bat an eyelid. Of course, poor as they were, didn’t want any money for the boy. You know what a township family is like – what you have, you share around. So this boy came home with me and stayed with us for the next few years, sharing my brothers’ room. My mum even went with him for his first job interview.
I hope that if he comes across this website, he remembers those wonderful teachers – and of course, my wonderful parents.
October 29, 2011 at 10:40 pm
Oh my word, Cliffy. What a lovely story.
Please can I cut it out from here and edit it to make a little article for the publication? I will send it back to you for final approval, if you let me have your email. Send me your email on: laattb@aol.com.
Don’t we all have stories of these stern, determined but caring teachers to tell?
Ms Fisher taught me Bio too and Snoekie was my beloved English teacher. They drove us hard but yes, they cared. Snoekie it was who sniffed at my place in the top ten because it was only CAD exams but who grinned from ear to ear and bragged worse than my parents when I landed the Anglo American Open Scholarship because then it was an overall prize not a coloured exam. And it was for 5 not the usual 3 years.
Snoekie it was who came to my graduations and to my parents’ humble home in the dorp, to toast my little successes in ginger beer and chomp “Slamse koekies” as though it was labarang. I felt as though I spent 5 years at that school and 5 at UCT with them all cheering me from the sidelines. Never again did I settle for only doing well in a segregated little pond.
Geeez – your story made me miss them. And I guess, miss my 16 year old self.
It’s the kind of thing I’m looking for. If Freddy gets to me in the next few days, I will add his comments to this.
October 29, 2011 at 10:14 pm
Hi Shereen,
How are you going? Just thought to mention that having been fortunate in being blessed with some sporting talent ( skills?) I have represented Trafs in athletics, soccer & cricket at different levels. In 1963 ( I think ) I made the WP schools team in soccer but had to soccer boots even during the trials I used my older brother’s boots. When the announcement was made over the intercom that two students made the team, ( Other student being Freddy Vollenhoven ) our biology teacher called me to congratulate me and asked, ” Do you need anything for this trip to Jo’burg? ” I immediately responded saying ” I NEED BOOTS!” My parents were not in a financial position to see to those needs. Our lovely Bio teacher being Ms Fisher jumped into action and organised a collecting list, with Snoekie’s permission, for donations. On arrival in JO’ burg, I went shopping for soccer boots and had a very successful tournament. What a wonderful lady and I still think back at the caring support we got from a wonderful staff. Thanks very much Ms Fisher. We won the tournament & both Freddie & I did our school proud. I believe Freddie lives in Australia too and will do my best to track him down. Still digging for photos but nothing yet.
Cheers
PS: This South African schools soccer tournament might have been the first one held of many that followed.?
October 29, 2011 at 12:36 pm
Re the centenary publication, my current full-time occupation:
I’m getting some lovely stuff in, but shockingly, the people on this website are hugely under-represented with only one piece in and one on its way!!!
No, I’m not forgetting the wonderful pictures you lot have sent – but I need some writing to go with them.
October 29, 2011 at 8:16 am
I just spoke with Magdalene Brien a few moments ago and she will attempt to say ” hello ” soon.
October 29, 2011 at 7:09 am
I just had a long chat with Viv Dagnin who left Trafs circa 1961 , he intends saying hi soon.
October 28, 2011 at 11:12 am
Sorry, Graeme, have no idea at the moment. Am struggling to find my way out of the dark on this issue as much as everyone.
I know it seems mad but believe me………….. I wish I knew more than the fact that I am 24/7 on this, literally breaking my back, just seeking out people, making contact, asking for and gathering the pieces, proofing them…………. and nothing else was told to me………..
I am so over-extended that I haven’t had the time to consider this, so please…….. be a dear, you know the man to ask………… the same one I’ve been asking…..
Once I have everything in, that should be my job done ie an editor hands over everything to the person who commissioned, who then goes on to get the actual publication and distribution sorted out.
Perhaps by then, The Man will be able to answer your question………… and all mine…..
Meantime, all of you have really been helpful………. so thanks, hang in there………..
October 28, 2011 at 9:27 am
Shereen, thx for yr reply offline. Do you have any idea how this Trafs book which you are writing will be distributed ? Will it be distributed to guests at a formal Trafs Centenary function or will it be handed out to existing Trafs students or will it be on sale to the public ? Hopefully, this means of distribution would have been discussed by somebody ? ?
October 26, 2011 at 5:16 pm
Sorry, Cliffy –
A bit dof today – forgot to respond to your missive above. No, we never met. I only arrived at Trafs in 1970. However, I am very pleased to meet you and your friends here in this space Warren has created.
Your comment about ignoring the academics pleases me greatly. Purely as an editor looking for diversity, of course. Ahem!!!
As a parent, I’m not going to gainsay whatever it was your parents said when you came home with a sports trophy and a less than satisfactory report (hah! how’s that for shooting in the dark! gotcha??)
As a potential editor, I am woefully short of tales from sportsmen and women, writers, poets, musicians, artists, artisans, ordinary working folk. So, please, let us hear from left outfield too.
Trafs didn’t only produce political prisoners, doctors, academics, engineers and lawyers – the fact that the rest (we, the masses) were equally sterling, led OK lives and turned into OK human beings, shows the true strength of the school and its teachers.
So – make no apologies. Let’s have those tales of sporting prowess. We need to hear from the SACOS sportsmen and women……………….
And some pics of you and your friends at play would be welcome too.
October 26, 2011 at 4:58 pm
Great job, Warren, with the pics you sent and Pat with those pics you got John to send. I know I emailed thanks privately, but thought I’d do it here too.
We’re getting some really nice stuff in eg a piece from an ex-political prisoner/ sportsperson/ teacher/student/doctor (the ultimate Trafalgarian) and another from a youth group in London who visited Trafs last year, offering an outsider’s perspective for our family and friends section.
Nice work, guys, but we need a lot more. There are many, many on this blog who have not sent me anything to chew over yet…..
Warren, can you put the frighteners on them, mate? If they can blog, they can write. If they want to blog, they obviously have something to say………..
Lastly – can anyone give me any of their Trafs contacts in other countries eg the huge number I hear are living in Canada? Usually one or two contacts lead to more. The problem with Canada is that there is a Trafalgar High in Canada, so every search with both Canada and Trafalgar in it brings up that school, not ours. All help welcome
October 26, 2011 at 11:02 am
Graeme! Have you traced Winston Kloppers yet?
Cheers
C liffy
October 26, 2011 at 11:00 am
Hi Shereen, I dont think we had the pleasure of meeting? However thanks for the request & both graeme & i will do our best. The period of ’60 – ’64 we were there, plenty happened on both the political and sports levels. Admittingly, I was too crazy about sport & allowed the academics to suffer,but made it through to Hewat & university. Will get to Winston kloppers too.
Keep up the good work gurl!
Cheers
Cliffy
October 25, 2011 at 11:26 am
Hi all – especially Cliff and Graeme –
If you could persuade your friend Winston to write a bit for the publication (I assume you will too?) and especially let us have whatever pics he has – I would be eternally grateful.
We have Warren’s wonderful ones, but more pics are always welcome. In fact, if you sixties souls are the main guys sending in pics, we’ll have to do a spread on you lot.
Whatever you can do, thank you for it.
Best
Shereen
October 24, 2011 at 8:09 am
Cliffie,
I will try and contact Winston soonest. I spoke with Shirley Carelse yesterday,she lives in the Eastern Suburbs.
October 24, 2011 at 4:28 am
Hi Graeme,
Have you got Winston Kloppers’ contact details? I think we should try him too? A very keen researcher that he is, I’m sure would have some good pics/articles in his possession.
Cheers
Cliffy
October 24, 2011 at 4:23 am
Hi Cedric,
How are you going mate? I read with interest that you taught at Bellies. I taught there for about 10 years doing geography & PT with Freddie Britten. When were you there?
Godd to hear from you. Have you got any news about Norman Delo, Johnny Hendricks & Jeggels ( spelling ?) He taught geography too & was originally from P.E. I think? Keep blogging away!
Cheers
Cliffy Febs
October 23, 2011 at 7:45 am
Oh Trafalgarians how about this , as I have encouraged Miriam and Cliffie to join this blog, would it be possible for each one of us to contact and encourage another one ( at least ) ex Trafalgarian to join this blog and hopefully our numbers will grow ?
I intend to contact Omar Adams who lives in the next suburb and I am working on Arthur Cloete, Suleiman van Dyk and Shirley Carelse. So guys , this site IS growing, just a little more effort is required,we can do it.
October 22, 2011 at 1:38 pm
Hi Warren,
I had no idea you were in Canberra. Dont ask me why but yeah. It’s good & refreshing to go on this journey with all the trafalgarians as they tell their stories. I’m sure many forgotten but valuable memories will come flooding back as we engage each other on a regular basis. If you need any assistance Warren I’ll be happy to assist where I can.
Cheers
Cliffy Febs
October 22, 2011 at 1:14 pm
Hi Graeme, I dropped Warren a line and hope we continue this discussion. Unfortunately I do not have any pics ( I think I dont ) but if anything comes up, I will let you know.
Thanks for calling me today.
Cheers
Cliffy
October 22, 2011 at 10:10 am
I have just had a conversation with Cliffie February and he should join our group soon.
October 19, 2011 at 9:14 am
Does anyone remember a girl who acted in Romeo and Juliet? 1970?She was either in std 8 or std 10 when I was in std 6, so she would have been class of 1970 or 1972. I remember that the school’s production of the play was the talk of the town, or at least of the schools around, because she was so good – cried real tears (don’t think she could have used onions, because that would have put Romeo off the close up and personals). I think her opposite number was Sedick Kalam, but I’m not sure. I would like to know whether she went on to act in anything else, or how that production’s success impacted on her………… The old brain just can’t dig up her name………. Also, are there any musicians, artists, sportspersons, etc out there?
October 19, 2011 at 7:35 am
Thank you. I am fully chastised! Were you a school ma`am at some stage ? Your email reached me after I had posted my bit on Warren’s blog. Did I not sufficiently apologise for my misunderstanding? In as much as compiling the Centenary book requires particular skills, garnering and sustaining the interest, passion and enthusiasm for the project is going to require solid people skills Shereen.
October 18, 2011 at 9:27 pm
Thanks for issuing the threat on my behalf, Warren – and there I was, thinking I’d have to come the heavy myself. ………. and I promise you, at 1.5m and 45kg I can get pretty heavy with folks who don’t deliver.
By the by – is there anyone except Miriam who didn’t understand that what I am calling for is contributions of writing, pictures, etc NOT OF MONEY? NOT FINANCIAL?
Miriam, since for some obscure reason you got the wrong end of the stick, despite my email to you telling you what is required – I wrote to you to clarify this matter and I understood from your answering email that you now have it right – It’s writing I want, not your money. That’s between you and whoever is organizing the party. You really should read mail properly, all the way through.
So why are you still saying: “From Shereen’s Pandit’s response, I understand that it is in its infant stage and possibly with our input (financial as well), progress could be accelerated.” When, where and how did I involve myself in organizing the party, or asking for money? Did I not repeatedly introduce myself as one of the co-editors? Geez!!
I don’t know which part of this is more embarrassing – having to deny this for the third time to you, Miriam, or having to straighten you out on someone else’s (very amicable and easygoing) blog.
If you want to write for the publication, or appeal to others to do so, then please do – and welcome. Otherwise, please don’t use my name in vain. Like the good lord, I deeply resent it.
And everyone else – please, please, write, write write.
October 18, 2011 at 10:43 am
Welcome aboard Miriam. Glad you like the little chat room and we welcomer all contributions. I’d like to say I was the athletic hero but no, that was my cousin Joseph Stalin Ludski. He was in the C class — when he pitched up for classes. I was in the A class. We were not exactly endowed with athletic prowess — except perhaps for that freak Greg Steenveldt, who managed to heave the shot put even tough there was nothing on him.
Now that you’re along for the ride, cut out the procrastination — or that Pandit woman will get all evil. And I believe she can.
Also, we Sixties types better get busy. Can’t let those Seventies types hog all the glory.
Gotta fly .. got an article to write.
October 17, 2011 at 9:23 am
Hi everyone – I am Miriam du Toit (Edwards formerly) I attended Trafs between 1960 and 1964. Some of my best memories are of high school when transitioning between girl and adulthood. Teachers, fellow learners were great and very special people. I have lost contact with most but a couple and would love to revive those long ago friendships.
Warren if my memory serves me well – you were the athletic hero every sports day?
I followed up on Pat Wagner’s announcement of the Trafalgar Centenary book. From Shereen’s Pandit’s response, I understand that it is in its infant stage and possibly with our input (financial as well), progress could be accelerated.
I am glad that I stumbled across this site this morning. Since Pat mentioned it a while ago, I have meant to post my bit but with procrastination …….
Thank you Warren for creating this opportunity.
Miriam
September 29, 2011 at 10:22 pm
Hi everyone – any progress on those articles?
All I need is a couple of hundred words from you, your friends or you and your friends – all ex-Trafs – on “Your Trafalgar”.
The more people we get writing, the wider the pool we can select from – and the more representative the publication will be!
Warren – we’ve got a fabulous pic of Trafs, taken last week, which would be great alongside the 60s pic on this site. When I learn how to post a pic, I will let you have it
Best
Shereen
September 19, 2011 at 10:16 am
PS. Graeme
I’ve been in the UK since leaving SA in rather a hurry in 1986 – doing very much what I was doing in SA – some call it “s~**%%” stirring, others call it political activism.
Also along the way I acquired a Ph.D in labour law, spent rather a lot of time raising a bonny, bright, beautiful daughter, doing some writing, working in immigrant and community groups, you name it.
For some of my published work, have a look at
http://shereenpandit.bookslive.co.za/
or listen to a story put on at the Symphony Space in New York a couple of years ago and broadcast across the States on:
http://tunein.com/search/?query=Shereen+Pandit
or just google “Shereen Pandit”
…… you’ve that much time on your hands!!
September 19, 2011 at 10:09 am
Boys, boys!! Behave!!
Graeme, my man, get onto those good folks in Aus and tell them to mail me their words, especially the 90 year old.
I need time to sift, select, proof, edit – I find that despite Snoekie’s worst efforts, grammar, spelling and other typos slip through. You know how it goes, one minute nothing happens, the next minute the floodgates open. I’ve put my own writing on hold for a while to do this, so let’s have the words, people, the words.
Come on Graeme and Warren, you’re in this too. Get some writing to me.
Graeme, when you’ve worked out which pics you can spare, I will let you have an address to send them to, or you could send them to Trafs, marked for the attention of Goolam Pandit.
Best
S
September 17, 2011 at 7:06 am
I think I’ve just been libelled, slandered, maligned and my dignity impugned by this Samuels bloke from the B (or is it C) class. I need a lawyer. You up for it Pandit?
September 17, 2011 at 1:05 am
Shereen, where have you been all these years ? Not bunking I hope ! Well, why not those were fabulous days. I love year comment viz.” ought to find a home.” I was one of the fortunate ochies (sp?) who use to carry a camera at Trafs and on sports days. I also have a few slides which might just bring a tear to your eyes so I’m unsure wether I should send these ! I am very excited and pleased that you and your brother have accepted this noble task which must never be left undone. Well, Warren was ” gunna” and “gunna” en kyk nou hier ! This should fire you up Ludski !
Here in Sydney are a few ex Trafalgarians who were a number of years ahead of me and I will endeavour to contact them regarding this as well.
Note this interesting ex Trafalgarian, he should be 90 years young ( in the shade ) and probably deceased, he was my mother’s cousin. It is said that he was a member of the RAAF and possibly saw service overseas. His brother was a resident of Perth and I spoke with him in the mid 1980′s. Hulle is oorals !
September 9, 2011 at 2:39 pm
Sorry, Warren, I’m a bit “dof” today. Not sure I made clear that it was by googling Trafs that I arrived at your blog……….. and all the great okes on it.
Will you let me have access to whatever photos you can muster?
September 9, 2011 at 2:34 pm
Googled “Trafalgar High School” when rumours first starting circulating that I might be asked to do this job. Knew that their timing would way underestimate the time I want to do a proper job, so I thought I’d get in early and root out everyone I can and want to reach.
Your blogmates seem ideal for the “My Trafs” section, because they are enthusiastic and not shy to write and put their ideas and memories out there.
For those reading my appeal, who feel shy, remember that it only requires a personal anecdote. This section is an all-comers section so people won’t be scared off by the idea of publication.
What I’d like all potential contributors to do is to put one or two lines at the end of their pieces (300-400 words) with name, matric year and where they are at now, in terms of life, work or geography.
With some support I will do most of the proofing and editing, to ensure that none of our past teachers comes to haunt us for our errors of spelling, grammar or syntax. Hopefully other people will come on board to form a team which will choose the final pieces to ensure that we have articles which are interesting, stimulating, provocative, fun and entertaining, but not our “kopse k..k” . Me, I kind of like “kopse k….k” but I dread being haunted by Snoekie if I were to let drivel creep into a commemorative journal.
All the best, Warren and thanks for your help and letting me use this space
Shereen
September 9, 2011 at 12:40 pm
Shereen
Welcome to the forum. It’s gone 10pm on a Friday night in Canberra (where I find myself these last 25 years. I have read your posting and will digest it at a more opportune moment since I have just come back from Sydney but, at first blush, it sounds like a great idea and i would be more than happy to contribute in whatever form.
I’ll sleep on it and then put in my five bobs worth in relation to your post — and I’m sure others would to. As ever, I ask all who post how they came across the blog (I would like to see more people access it and probab;y a little vanity too. How did you com,e across it?
September 9, 2011 at 12:31 am
Hello Warren and all Trafalgarians on this site
My name is Shereen Pandit. Like you, I am an alumnus of Trafalgar ( class of 74, lawyer, writer, political s**!!stirrer ie true Trafalgarian). I’d rather not disclose my academic details, but if Warren insists on seeing my report card….. .
I notice there’s been a lot of discussion on this site about the Trafs centenary next year. I have a bit of information and some related requests. The information is that Trafalgar’s Board of Governors has asked me and my brother, Goolam Pandit (class of ’77, teacher) to edit a book to commemorate the Trafs centenary.
We’ve more or less worked out the shape of the publication. We have in mind a number of sections and articles, some commissioned from the most august in our illustrious crew of ex-Trafalgarians. Other sections include a huge composite article, provisionally entitled “My Trafalgar”. It will consist of 300-400 word pieces by alumni from all over the world, every walk of life and as many decades of Trafs’ existence as is possible (the Grim Reaper having carried off so many from the earlier decades) . Here there will be space for the great and the good, the not so great and not terribly good, and all those who would just like to stick in warm memories and the kind of stories that only someone from “Die Kaap” will really understand.
We also hope to provide space to show off the creativity of Trafs students past and present, by inviting contributions of short stories, poetry and artwork.
Last but not least, we will be calling on people to contribute whatever photos they have in their possession which they think really ought to find a home in this publication.
You may ask why Goolam and I have been invited to do the job. Goolam is an ex-teacher who is still involved in education. In another country and another life, I used to be a lawyer and law lecturer. These days I make a living (or not) as a writer. You can pick up some of my writing and related work by googling me, by going onto my Book SA website where some of my published stuff re-appears, or by listening to a story staged in the States and on radio there last year. I’ve also edited a number of publications, I speak and read regularly at litfests around Europe, blah, blah.
Going by previous things I’ve edited, to produce a quality publication from contributions as widespread as this, both geographically and historically, would take a year to put together. We have only a few months to put together something which will serve as a repository of a great deal of history, personal and political, something which reflects just how much this school has contributed to the advancement of, dare I say it, humankind. We are aiming for a publication of quality which we’ll all be proud to show off in out dotage.
In short, having bored you stiff with all of the above, will everyone who’s got something to contribute please send it to the following email: laattb@aol.com Also, if you know of anyone who can or should be invited to contribute and have his/her contact details, please ask them to get in touch with me.
Well, it’s gone 1:30 am on this benighted island I’ve lived on these last two decades and more, so ……….
Many thanks
Shereen Pandit
August 17, 2011 at 12:34 pm
Ismail, glad to have you aboard and I hope the blog was interesting enough for you given that it focussed on the years prior to your time there. What was Bavasah still the same, or has old aged caught up with him. I hope he gets to read the blog because he gets a special mention in it. I would love to get a photo of Ernie Steenveldt and post it on the blog. If you have a few photos of your classmates, I could create a new page and post it. Regards. Warren
August 15, 2011 at 5:31 pm
Hi Warren
My name is Ismail Gabie and attended Trafs during the seventies.
Just to let you know I met Mr Bavasa today at the funeral of
Mr Salie Adams an ex teacher at Trafs.I told him about your blog and says he still remembers the Ludskis.I think i might still have a photo of Mr Steenveld and of Birchington street for your blog
August 7, 2011 at 10:52 am
My cousin told me about your blog. I dont know how she found it but she is an Edross so someone must have told her about seeing Solly on your blog. I told Selma about your blog so she’ll probably check it out sometime. How can I get in touch with Ronnie Davids ?
August 6, 2011 at 10:07 am
Faiza, I would also like to know how you got to know about this site? Just out of idle curiosity….
August 4, 2011 at 10:52 am
Faiza, thanks for the comment. Glad I could make your day with a few blasts from the past. I have been given a few more photographs which I intend loading onto the site in the next week or so. I spoke with Dr Mogamat Wasfie Hassiem last week (he lives in Durbanville) and asked about a centenary celebration in 2012. Have you heard anything about it.
I also went to the trouble of phoning the school and emailing them asking if they had anything I could use on the site. But, the IT teacher promised me he would get me something and months later, I am still waiting.
If you talk with Selma, please pass on my regards. Her father was more than a teacher to me. He was a mentor and friend.
Please let other Trafalgarians know about the blog. It’s fun and it keeps people in touch and brings back some pretty good memories. Regards … Warren
August 3, 2011 at 8:51 am
Saw the pictures on your blog and I was blown away. The students with Mr. Biggs are my matric classmates and I. I am standing to the left of him and Dr. Gadija Galvaan is on his right. I am Mr. solly Edross’s niece and was a pupil and teacher at Trafalgar for many years. I am currently spending time in Melbourne, Australia at my sons place until the end of the year. My cousin Selma, Mr Edross’s daughter was also at Trafs in Minnie Ebrahim’s class.
May 30, 2011 at 10:23 am
Warren
Came across your blog by chance. I live in Lichtenburg in NW Province,work in Mafikeng. Was in CT this past weekend. Made sure to drive past Trafs. Told the person I was travelling with about the school. Sang him the school song too. ” Trafalgarians be ye proud ! “
February 27, 2011 at 8:09 am
Thanks Graeme. Hopefully something will come from this initiative. We need to acknowledge the role of our teachers in shaping us for adulthood. Anybody else out there have any thoughts. Warren Ludski
February 27, 2011 at 12:03 am
Please be advised that my email address has changedPat Wagner will be enroute to Cape Town on Thursday, 03/03/11 and he will attempt to catch up with former students some of whom may be James Marsh, Harold Herman, Suleiman van Dyk and others. He will also attempt to speak with ” Pollie ” Slingers and Mr Lennert ( sp ?) He will then together with these individuals and others attempt to have a meeting with the principal of Trafalgar High School to ascertain what plans they have in mind regarding Trafs’ big birthday in 2012. If any of you are interested in this initiative ,please contact the aforementioned individuals or other interested parties.
December 20, 2010 at 9:58 pm
Warren
Avril Kannemeyer. I do have a few re-union photos. please advise me on the best way (technically) to get it to you for publication.
regards
Cedric
December 13, 2010 at 4:39 am
Laurence,
I apologise for not getting back to you sooner but I have had a few distractions (that’s putting it mildly). I do remember your father very well although he never actually taught the classes I was in. But hopefully someone who reads this blog (all five of them) can help you out. People like Graeme Samuels could put you in touvh with Rosie Oliphant who lives in Sydney and may have a few things to tell you. Let me know how you go.
Regards
Warren
December 13, 2010 at 4:27 am
Cedric, good to hear from you. Would that Avril in your class have been Avril Kannemeyer or Avril Reines. Did you take photos at your reunion. I would be more than happy to load some of them on this site. Hope to hear from you soon.
Regards Warren
December 8, 2010 at 12:47 pm
The planned reunion of 2012 – it’s long overdue. Keep me posted.
December 8, 2010 at 12:17 pm
Hi Warren
I attended Trafs 1962 -1964. Class mates at the time include names like James Marsh, Geoff Barendilla, Mary Cloete, Anita Booysen, Shukri Abrahams, Norman Delo, Johnny Hendricks, etc. I remember you well from Cape Herald and Walmer Estate days. Taught for a while at Belgravia High, where a young student, Avril …. was in my class. (See, my memory is still intact) Spent the rest of my teaching career in Uitenhage and Port Elizabeth (Eastern Cape) and after retirement for a short period, went back to teaching. Lecturing at FET College at present and still coming to terms with the tremendous challenges which we face every day.
I remember those sixties very well. Snoekie, Blesbok, Miss Dean, Giffie, Mr Slingers, Meltzer, Mr Emeran,etc
Had a reunion with some of those mates a few years ago. But being resident in the Eastern Cape, its difficult to keep up with developments in the Cape.
Try to contact me on facebook.
Keep up the good work.
Cedric Bosman
July 19, 2010 at 5:26 am
Hello Warren,
I am searching for information about my father, Dickie Greeff. He taught at Trafalgar for many years. He may taught you. My sister, Rita and brother Eric (Billy) were also at Trafs.
Any tidbits, pictures etc would be appreciated.
Thanks,
Laurence
June 2, 2010 at 7:48 am
Hi Warren – Good to see all thius online chat. My Trafs connection was brief, being on staff from late 1963 to early 65 when I headed back to UCT. I keep in close touch with Graeme Samuels, but haven’t seen Shirley Carelse in a long while. Miriam du Toit[nee Edwards] emails from time to time and some 3 years ago I had the pleasure of meeting with Polly Slingers and Suleiman van Dyk in Cape Town. On that occasion I’d played a role in the founding of the Athlone High Alumni Association. Should Trafs launch in this direction ?? I’ve lived in Australia since Dec 1977 and these days live in southern NSW near Canberra.
June 1, 2010 at 11:14 am
I forgot to mention that Shirley Carelse also lives in Sydney. She attended Trafs in Std 9 and 10 and she came from ” the country side.”
June 1, 2010 at 11:12 am
For those of you who may be interested, the teacher, Ronnie Davids lives in Attadale, Perth, Australia. His health has been challenging him lately. Omar Adams who left Trafs around 1962 lives up the road from me. He visited Cape Town earlier this year.Mary Barendilla ( nee Cloete ) lives in Perth as well. Brian and brother Vivianne Dagnin ( ex Bloemhof Flats) live in Sydney, Australia as well. Brian has had health issues as well. So Guys, lets talk and find some more Trafalgarians before time runs out!
May 28, 2010 at 12:20 pm
Mickey Peake…………………………do you know of Eric Jacobs who lived in Pine Road and is cousin to Charlie Jacobs and also knew Stalin Ludski ??? Who else do you know who proceeded you in the early ’60′
Regards, Graeme Samuels.
May 28, 2010 at 12:16 pm
To Mogamat Wasfie Hassiem, I left Trafs in 1964 and knew Winston Kannemeyer especially as he was our bestman at our wedding. Are you in contact with him ? Yes, Mogamat I am the same Graeme Samuels who stayed in No 10-6th Street, Kensington, give me more info about you ? I spoke with Suleiman van Dyk two days ago and we speak often ( married to Gabieba.) Who else do yoy know of ? Mogamat do you know the contact details of Eric Jacobs ? Let’s keep talking mate.
Warm regards, Graeme Samuels .
PS ….I have many Trafs pics from The ’60′s.
May 28, 2010 at 5:37 am
Mickey,
I don’t know you personally but certainly know the surname. Who wouldn’t? Yes, the Walmer Estate Ludski clan is family. I am Stalin, Donald, Rudy, Rose Cecilia, Lina, Shirley, Lavona etc etc’s cousin. My father was Noah.
May 28, 2010 at 5:32 am
Wasfie, Glad to hear from you and please pass on this blog to those of our classmates with whom you still have contact. I would be thrilled to receive any material from you and then create a new page to accommodate it. Ideally, I would like to get a few more responses from our matric class — and maybe even a few teachers (Bavasah — if he is computer literate, Slingers, Lennart) but being in Australia, it would probably have to be you contacting them.
May 3, 2010 at 8:45 pm
hi warren, at last been able to visit your blogsite.i will look for some photos of our classmates and send it toyou.its grand site so let us trafies talk to each other.is it the same graeme samuels.that stayed in 6th street kensington (friend of winston kanemeyer).have you any contact nos of our classmates? speak to you later hassiem
April 26, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Hi Warren,
My name is Jawwaad, you and my mom, Nadia Singh are cousins. She was speaking about your mom and i decided to use the power of the internet to find you. Mom is not that computer literate so im saying hi on her behalf. She asked me to tell you she is still the “jungle girl”.
Hope you are well!
Regards,
Jawwaad karjieker
April 20, 2010 at 3:38 pm
Hello Guys,
I guess that your family is part of the Duke Street Ludski clan Warren. I spent time with most of them at the sad occasion of Rudy’s funeral in January 2010.
Well, I attended Trafs during the latter part of the sixties and Bavasah taught me Latin too. I am very interested in the 2012 bash and look forward to updates.
Best wishes,
Mickey
March 11, 2010 at 10:14 pm
Graeme,
I’d be only happy to accommodate new material. Bring it on. Scan it on, whack a few paragraphs with it and I’ll create a new page. By the way, it’s Bavasah, Hassan Bavasah. But what would you know, you never made it to the A class where he taught us Latin. (sorry, couldn’t resist that elitist dig for you guys from the other “houses”.
March 11, 2010 at 9:42 pm
Oh Harold……………………….I have pics of that Trafs School Re-union which you organised. Do you have any ? Warren, can you possibly fit these pics in somewhere ? Graeme.
March 11, 2010 at 9:40 pm
I am excited about the fact that us Trafalgarians are connecting via this site. Harold, I was at that Trafalgar High School School Reunion and it sent large goosebumps through my body to meet and speak with some of my old classmates and teachers such as Mr Slingers, Mr Emeran, Mr Bewassa ( sp?), Mr Steenveld. It was a night that I will never forget. Harold ,I thought that it was held in January 2001 ( when I attended my mother’s funeral?) I hear wispers of a massive ( allow me the licence to exaggerate ) Trafalgar High School Celebration in 2012. I have beenn speaking with Albert Hess and Suleiman van Dyk and they are positive that something big is planned.By-the-way, Omar Adams ( brother of Alvie ) lives down the road from me. He left Trafs circa 1961 ?
Let’s keep chatting Trafalgarians and let’s rope in some more ex Trafs ?
Kind regards, Graeme Samuels.
March 11, 2010 at 7:01 am
Graeme,
Please see activity on site.
March 11, 2010 at 7:00 am
Harold,
Please advise whether you received my earlier message.
March 11, 2010 at 6:58 am
Good to see you guys talking to each other. I have been a bit slack lately but will devote a little more attention to the blog in the coming week. Incidentally Zane, I too have been a public servant in Australia since I landed here 24 years ago. Will respond a little more soon.
March 10, 2010 at 11:15 pm
Hi Harold,
You now have someone from your era. I also matriculated from Trafs in 1960 and emigrated to Canada in 1961. I am retired after 37 years working for the federal government in various federal ministries and geographic locations. I spent 6 years in Vancouver , 13 years in Ottawa, 10 years in Toronto and my last posting in Hamilton which is located on Lake Ontario about half way between Toronto and Niagara Falls.
I have recently gone through major medical trauma and my surgeons were both from South Africa, Durban and PE. I am doing well and look forward to checking on this blog . Thanks Warren for your initiative.
Regards ,
Zane Brown
January 24, 2010 at 1:04 pm
Warren and Graeme
The Blog is great! But what about including students of the 1950s like myself. I matriculated in 1960. I organised a 1960s Matric reunion in 2000 where we launched teacher Joe Rasool’s book, District 6 – Lest We Forget. How about you coming to join us for the 50th Anniversary this year. I am now an Emeritus Profesor living Somerset West and I am writing a book which includes the Trafalgar experience. Would like more communication with you. Unfortunately I am not a blogger! I visited Australia a year ago and met with Graeme Sameuls and Pat Wagner. Please reply so that we can move the discussion forward.
Kind regards
Harold Herman
January 21, 2010 at 5:48 am
Hi Warren
Great to hear about you, been wondering how you were getting on down under. Living in Dublin for past 14 years, divorced, married Irish, divorced and now living with a wonderful woman from home with whom I intend to stay with forever. Visit home every year staying in Kalk Bay, actually Roben my partner is South African from this neck of the woods. Enough of me how are you, drop me a line, it’ll be great to catch up. Would like to hear about your life down under, do you have any contact with Kenny Roman, the Stoffbergs ?
Talk again
Armien
December 16, 2009 at 9:39 pm
Warren,
This blog is coming along nicely but I could you try and re-scan the section ” Memorabilia and Photo’s” as this page is unreadable.
Regards, Graeme Samuels.
April 12, 2009 at 10:00 pm
Typed you a note but ballsed it up. Only been on the net for week so I won’t apologize. How’s the snooker? Just completed my first manuscript. 555 pages long Sa based of course and a bit about our time at CH. NZ seem to be interested. Australia haven’t reacted yet. Downturn and all that maybe. Will contact you tomorrow. Give Mally my regards.
Gas.