Overview
Identifiers
References
Record Administration
Monuments
Monuments & Memorials Recordings
Identifiers
Classifications
Gerard Leendert Pieter Moerdijk, “was born in 1890 in Nylstroom, a son of Dutch immigrant family.” He was a South African architect and more prominently known as, “one of the first formally trained Afrikaans-speaking architects.” Moerdijk has a vast portfolio: “He designed approximately ninety churches, numerous houses, halls and public buildings.” His most famous work though and the site of the memorial is the Voortrekker Monument in Pretoria. The memorial serves as a reminder of Moerdijk’s accomplishments as well as acknowledging his role in the architecture and creation of the Voortrekker Monument.References 'SA architect Gerard Moerdijk is born,' at https://www.sahistory.org.za/dated-event/sa-architect-gerard-moerdijk-b… accessed 21 Mar. 21.
Müller, H, ‘A short history of Gerard Moerdyk’s first church,’ at http://www.theheritageportal.co.za/article/short-history-gerard-moerdyk… accessed 21 Mar. 21.
Moerdijk, the architect of the Voortrekker Monument was born on the farm Zwaershoek near Modimolle (Nylstrom), Limpopo. He qualified as an architect with the Architectural Association in England. Visited Italy and returned to South Africa in 1913.
He became the first South African to be invited by the Royal Institute of British Architects to become a fellow. He received honorary membership of the S.A. Academy of Science and Art in 1936 and an honorary doctorate from the University of South Africa in 1950. He designed numerous public buildings, churches and private dwellings across South Africa.
The Central People’s Monument Committee decided in 1931 to erect a monument in honour of the Voortrekkers (Pioneers). Moerdijk’s design was accepted and construction commenced in July 1937. The cornerstone was laid on 16 December 1938 and the Voortrekker Monument was officially inaugurated on 16 December 1949.
Apart from designing the Monument, he was closely involved in the construction process as well as the negotiations for the creation of the 27 marble frieze panels in the Hall of Heroes. The clay Marquette panels were created in his studio in Sunnyside, Pretoria and shipped to Italy where they were chiselled in marble.
The Voortrekker Monument is regarded as Moerdijk’s master piece.
Location
Location
- City of Tshwane
Media
Media
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