A passionate advocate for social justice and equality, an authority on Khoisan identity, slavery and human rights and a dedicated teacher and mentor.
These are just some of the phrases used in countless tributes honouring Professor Henry “Jatti” Bredekamp who passed away at the age of 78 last week.
Bredekamp, who hailed from Genadendal, had a distinguished career, including heading the prestigious Institute for Historical Research at the University of the Western Cape before becoming the head of Cape Town’s Iziko Museums.
In her tribute Western Cape Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport, Anroux Marais, stated: “His leadership lay the foundation for the Iziko Museums, which remain a feather in Cape Town’s cap. We will always miss his leadership, passion, knowledge of especially slave and Khoisan history, his warm personality and his wit.”
Marais offered her condolences to Bredekamp’s family, friends and colleagues.
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) also expressed its sadness at the news of its former Director of the Institute for Historical Research’s death.
“Prof Bredekamp published extensively on historical issues. He was an authority on Khoisan identity as well as the memory of slavery and human rights. A giant tree of the UWC community has fallen. We will remember Prof Bredekamp for his unflinching commitment to educating a cohort of students at UWC who have gone on to leave their own legacy in the history of our country.”
Closer to home, the Genadendal Mission Museum also paid tribute to the son of its soil who served on the Board of Trustees of the Genadendal Mission Museum for a number of years.
A statement by the Mission Museum reads: “Professor Bredekamp’s journey commenced at the Genadendal Mission Station… Professor Bredekamp’s scholarly contributions were extensive, particularly in the realm of historical studies.
“In this sombre time of remembrance, we acknowledge the profound influence of Professor Bredekamp’s contributions to the realm of historical scholarship.
“His unwavering dedication to the fields of education and history has left an indelible mark on the annals of our nation’s heritage, serving as an enduring testament to his lasting legacy.”
Emil Weder Secondary School said in its tribute: “The heights you have achieved speaks volumes about your personality established in Klippiestraat. We acknowledge and honour your legacy. Rest in peace, Prof.”
Bredekamp’s illustrious career started off as a teacher at a farm school near Leeu Gamka in the Great Karoo. Later in his life, he joined the staff at UWC of which he was part for 27 years.
His academic achievements included master’s degrees in history, initially as a Fulbright scholar at Wesleyan University in the United States, and subsequently at UWC. Bredekamp was also a distinguished leader, serving as CEO of the Iziko Museums of Cape Town and President of the South African National Committee of ICOM (International Council of Museums).
