A new self-published book on the history of Strand has shed light on the fascinating history of the coastal town, revealing a tapestry of stories that span centuries.
The collaborative project, involving dozens of local contributions by community members, comprehensively explores Strand’s past.
One of the key themes explored in the book is an overview of the town’s firsts – the first houses, first businesses and first schools among other firsts. Author Danie Pienaar explains: “A book involving the history of a town is accompanied by a great deal of research, but it remains almost impossible to include the full extent of each period. Each town has historical stages, and each generation will feel emotionally that the period in which it lived in the village is more unique than other periods. Therefore it can be assumed that this book may fall short in some respects. Apologies are therefore offered in advance in case there are names and incidents of interest that do not appear. The purpose of the book is to provide a general overview of the history that is important to the people of the Strand.”
He elaborated that this book is not an orthodox history of the town. “There is not always detailed discussion of the causes or sequences of events. Rather, it is a book about the establishment of a town, incorporating some history of South Africa during the earlier days of this small village along the False Bay. As much as possible of the available published primary source material was used, and great care was taken to include reliable information. In this sense it is a history book; but it is a history book with a difference.”
Pienaar was born in Southern Rhodesia, where his father was a tobacco farmer. His parents moved to the Strand in 1955, where he has lived ever since. He was in the first Sub-A (Grade 1) class of the new Lochnerhof Primary School, mentioned in his book. He was also in the first Standard 6 (Grade 8) class in the new premises of Strand High School.
For many years Pienaar has been in love with Strand and its people. His father worked at Strand Municipality, in the building plans department, for 21 years, and he also worked in the Town Planning Department. After qualifying as a professional architect Pienaar studied at the business school of Stellenbosch University.
He also studied journalism there and wrote for Drive Out outdoor magazine, the Buiteburger and Motorburger. Pienaar was part of the establishment of the most successful GO magazine and had his own column, “Danie sê”, in the Landbouweekblad. Pienaar’s love for aviation led to acquiring his PPL licence in 1995, and since then has clocked many a flying mile. He married Susan, a school love, in 1973 and had two daughters. After 40 years he retired his architectural practice in Somerset West.
“The incredible chaos that erupted when it became known I was writing this book is evidence of the value people place in history of their town.”
Pienaar said placing the development of Strand is posited against the history of the country, with notes to show this.
“The Strand was not an autonomous place without contact with the rest of South Africa. I hope this book will inspire a sense of pride and belonging among Strand residents, and encourage them to participate in preserving and promoting the town’s rich heritage.”
What’s next for Pienaar?
“I am prompted by buyers to write a book about ‘the characters of the Strand’, which I am sure will involve inputs from the entire community.”
At R340 per book, email Dparch19955@gmail.com or call 082 3777 714 to get a copy.
