Warm conversations, handmade woollen gifts and storytelling filled the halls of the Homecoming Centre today as the District Six Museum’s Memory Threads Kewpie Knitting and Crocheting Circle handed dozens of knitted items inspired by the legacy of queer icon Kewpie over.

Born Eugene Fritz, she became well-known as Kewpie, the District Six hairdresser and drag queen.

The knitted scarves, beanies, blankets and other essential items were gifted to residents of the Kensington Home for the Aged, where Kewpie spent her final years.

Tina Smith, head of exhibitions at the museum, said the handover marked the culmination of a year-long intergenerational project that not only celebrated Kewpie’s creativity and compassion, but also brought communities together through craft, storytelling and care.

Celebrating Kewpie’s legacy

She pointed out that Kewpie was known for her flamboyant style, hairdressing talent and generosity.

“Kewpie’s story is such an important part of our local history, especially in terms of black gay history, where many feel Kewpie gave them a root system.”

Smith said inspired by that spirit of giving, the District Six Museum launched the Memory Threads Kewpie Knitting and Crocheting Circle last year, bringing former District Six residents, Cape Peninsula University of Technology fashion students and community crafters together.

Smith explained that following the successful showcasing of handcrafted garments at the Salon Kewpie Legacy Ball last year participants turned their focus to knitting practical winter items for vulnerable residents of the home.

Mona Angers, general manager of Kensington Home for the Aged, said she felt honoured to have been on duty when Kewpie became a resident there.

“Kewpie was well-loved and respected. One would spot Kewpie immediately with her pink gown and slippers; she was always smart. We are happy she walked through our doors. Her memory still lives on.”

Receiving the donation

On accepting the donation Angers said: “This is an overwhelming experience; I am happy the old-age home can be part of this beautiful occasion. It is winter and the residents are naturally cold. So this will warm their hearts and bodies.”

One of the knitters, Rahmah Miang-MacLean, a Seven Steps club member, said Kewpie was her neighbour in District Six and a close family friend.

“It feels good to be part of this project. I knitted handwarmers and scarves for the seniors.”

Amelia Brinkhuis, a Seven Steps club member, said she met Kewpie while working at Kensington Home for the Aged.

She added that she feels honoured to be part of the project.

“When this knitting project started, we all just delved in. We created beanies, scarves, socks, blankets. Kewpie would have been so proud.”

Smith explained that the Kewpie exhibition, featuring her collection of more than 600 photographs as well as some of her flamboyant outfits, will be on display at the Homecoming Centre until Monday 18 May.

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