NH Kerk - Swellendam

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Aka: Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk (Netherdutch Reformed Church of Africa)

Built: 1958 : 1970

Architect: J.C. Jongens

Location: Bronn St, Swellendam.

View from south. Image source: NHK on FB.

The small Swellendam congregation had already built the church hall before they seceded from Cape Town. 

As early as 1 March 1957, it was decided to purchase land for the construction of a church. The building committee contacted Mr J. C. Jongens, the architect who designed the church building in Cape Town.²

The old house at Landplaas — the very first congregational meeting of the Swellendam ward was held here to elect office-bearers. The first services and Holy Communion were also held in this farmhouse, the property of the Swart family.²

It was put into use at the beginning of 1958. Initially, the intention was to build a full church right next to the hall later on, but gradually the idea arose to add a tower and to set the liturgical centre in order. For this purpose, the sisters began raising funds, and several years of planning began to become a reality in 1970. A tower was added, the small veranda at the main entrance was converted into a foyer, and the stage in the hall was removed to install a proper pulpit.¹

View from north (1972)¹

Bell tower. Image source: NHK on FB.

Locality map

Sources

  1. Botha, C.G. (1972) Die Veranderde Kerkgebou in Swellendam. Die Hervormer, Apr 1972.
  2. Brandt, A. (1968) Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk Gemeente Swellendam: 1958-1968. Oudtshoorn Courant.

 

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