Elim Hospital
Swiss Missionaries started Elim Hospital in 1899. There is a Museum within the hospital yard that is being renovated so that visitors can view and get a historical understanding of the hospital. This includes the history of the Swiss Missionaries, Anglo-Boer War and the local Chief, Njhaka-Njhaka, who leased the land to these Missionaries for 100 years. The Missionaries brought religion to the people of Njhaka-Njhaka and churches and schools were built for the community.
The Elim hospital has always been well known for the good reputation of its optometrist division. People travel as far away as 350km for eye treatment here and it has now been declared a National Monument since it celebrated its 100th year of establishment.
Today the graves of the missionaries, Anglo-boer Commandos and Second World War veterans are found within the vicinity of the hospital and the surrounding areas.
Comments and Reviews
My grand parents use to work for the Berkom's and Martins family in the 40's, pharhaps the y can share some light on your enquiery
Gift on 9th of March, 2010 at 16:20.
I have heard my father talk about his Swiss Family Herbert Liengme as well as Lydia, his wife, working there and coming from the Neuchatel Area in Switzerland. Could you tell me more about it? Do you have by any chance some archives about these persons? My father was also suppose to have lived there during 1920's... John rufus Vieira is his name. I would be very grateful with any information you could transmit me.
Monique on 21st of February, 2010 at 00:59.
I would like to have some information in respect of a Swiss woman, Violette Falquet, who was associated with Elim Hospital in 1909. Hopefully your museum or archive can provide me with some background details? Thanking you in anticipation, George
george van den Hurk on 6th of October, 2009 at 17:29.
Add a comment
See all comments about this participant