Historic year for LAHS with 60th

THE Lower Albany Historical Society (LAHS) celebrates its 60th birthday this year, currently with 180 members and growing.

Formed in 1958, the LAHS has over the years presented its members with many memorable monthly talks from a wide variety of speakers, plus short and overnight history tours ranging far and wide in the Eastern Cape.

In addition, it has published 48 editions of its quality annual journal, Toposcope, which offer a fascinating record of research and knowledge of the history of the area, with many photographs to illustrate buildings, ruins, outings and people. The next Toposcope will be a commemorative “diamond” edition, edited for the sixth year by Kowie Museum curator Yvonne Surtees who serves on the LAHS committee.

Almost 100 members attended the LAHS AGM recently and heard, in chairwoman Heather Howard’s report, details of talks and outings during the busy year just past. She also reported that the 60th anniversary celebrations in August would include the annual Morse Jones Memorial Lecture and a special luncheon for members afterwards. It is also planned, during this anniversary year, to complete the refurbishment of the Toposcope monument at Bathurst, finance and work progress permitting.

In April, an overnight LAHS excursion to Cradock will be led by Brian “Bugs” Wilmot, who is an expert on the history and attractions of the town.

The committee for the coming year is: chairwoman Heather Howard, vice-chair Gwynn Crothall, treasurer Doug Sutherland, secretary Avonne Pickering, with Yvonne Surtees, Joy Billing, Sue Gordon, Delia Bavu, Dave Hawkins, Suzette Grist, Margaret Snodgrass and Sally Poole.