The village of Pniël stands as a testament to a history of struggle, resilience, and triumph. Established in 1843 as a mission station for freed slaves, Pniël has evolved into a beautiful heritage site. At its heart is the Pniël Museum, a beacon of cultural preservation and education.
The Pniël Museum offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Pniël, a quaint village in the Cape Winelands. It tells the story of how the former Mission Station, established by the Apostolic Union in 1843 for freed slaves and people of colour, grew into the peaceful village of today. The Pniël Congregational Church, with nearly 3,000 congregants, plays a pivotal role in preserving this heritage. The Pniël Congregational Church has been instrumental in raising awareness about this heritage, erecting monuments such as the Slave Memorial, the Slave Bell, and the Ubuntu Monument in the historic Werf area. These monuments commemorate the emancipation of slaves in 1838 and celebrate the spirit of unity and resilience.
The establishment of the Pniël Museum marked a significant milestone in the village’s journey to preserve its heritage. Officially opened on May 18, 2013, by Rev Thulani Ndlazi and Rev Leon Klate, the museum is a culmination of years of dedication and hard work. It owes its inception to Prof. Mathilda Burden, a renowned Senior Curator and Researcher in Cultural Heritage at the University of Stellenbosch.
About the Museum
The Pniël Museum is situated in the 17th-century farmhouse of Papiere Molen, where the slaves built houses and farmed. Visitors can explore photos, stories, and artifacts that provide insight into the lives of the humble but proud community. The museum displays various exhibitions, including historical photographs, clothing, and household items that illustrate the life of the freed slaves and their journey towards freedom.
The museum focuses on the village’s history and its connection to the emancipation of slaves in 1834. The exhibits demonstrate how the freed slaves worked on the surrounding farms and how the village developed into the peaceful community it is today. Housed in the old Manse, the former homestead of Papiere Molen, the museum occupies a building rich in history. Built in the 1700s, the Manse served as the residence of the local minister from 1843 to 2010. Its transformation into a museum ensures the preservation of both the building and the stories it holds. The Pniël Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant space where the past comes alive, offering visitors a profound understanding of the village’s journey from slavery to freedom.
Monuments at the Werf in Pniël: A Glimpse into the Past
The Freedom Monument
Unveiled on 11 September 1993, the Freedom Monument commemorates the emancipation of slaves on 1 December 1838. Created by artist Leon di Blique, the monument features two birds symbolising freedom from captivity. The accompanying fountain and flame represent hope, love, and the community’s eternal search for true freedom.
This monument is a tribute to the Bell Tree, which once stood in the Yard and served as a makeshift bell tower for the first church clock. The Bell Tree was a community hub, providing shade for fruit sellers and a romantic spot for couples. Although the tree was destroyed in a 1945 storm and later developments, the monument, unveiled during the 160th anniversary celebrations in 2003, honours its legacy.
The Slave Bell
Dating back to the ministry of Reverend Johan Frederik Stegmann, the Slave Bell bears an inscription from Mark 14:38. Originally hung on the Bell Tree, it was used to enforce a curfew. After falling and cracking in a 1945 storm, the bell was replaced. The original bell, partially repaired, was returned to the congregation in 2006 and is rung annually on 1 December to commemorate the emancipation of slaves.
The Ubuntu Monument
Unveiled by Kenneth Kaunda in 2007, the Ubuntu Monument was commissioned by the National Heritage Council. It features a rock from Robben Island mounted on a rock from Simonsberg, symbolising the interconnectedness of the community’s history with broader struggles against oppression. This monument highlights Pniël’s significant place in South Africa’s heritage.
These monuments at the Werf in Pniël provide a profound connection to the village’s past, celebrating the strength and resilience of its community.