On 1 April this year, the Kotzé family of the farm Platkloof held a family reunion on the farm 200 years after their ancestor Johannes Christiaan Kotzé started farming there in 1817. It was also the birthday of another ancestor – Johannes Pieter Philip (Koppenjan) Kotzé – he would have turned 111 this year.
This historic occasion was attended by about 140 people, of which 20 were children. Members of the Kotze family travelled from all across South Africa and even from as far afield as Switzerland. The oldest person at the reunion – “oom Mossie” will turn 99 this year.
Those present agreed that the reunion catered for all tastes – young and old. The activities included rides on a wagon which for the older generation brought back fond memories of “days gone by”. The children saw it as an adventure while others just enjoyed chatting or relaxing outdoors.
The informal atmosphere was appreciated by all as it allowed those attending the reunion to spend the day mixing with family, which they did with hearty enthusiasm. Meals were excellent and snacks were available throughout the day. The highlight of the day was the miniature bottles of “witblits” which were given as a souvenir. Someone described the reunion as “the festival of festivals” and absolutely worthwhile.
Everyone expressed their appreciation to the Kotzé family of Platkloof for the wonderful event hosted by them.
