JHF PRESENTS HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FRED OPPENHEIMER COLLECTION

The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) invites members of the media, historians, collectors, and heritage enthusiasts to a morning of history, storytelling, and rare artefacts at the historic Northwards mansion in Parktown.

On Saturday, 1 August at 10am, renowned local collector Fred Oppenheimer will present a curated selection of original, priceless historical treasures from his private collection at the JHF Book Room, Northwards, located at 21 Rockridge Road, Parktown. 

Attendees will have a rare opportunity to view and handle genuine historical documents and artefacts that shaped South African history. Of special interest to Northwards is an original John Dale Lace Mine minute book and share certificate, linking directly to the history of the house and its first owner.

Fred Oppenheimer’s collection also includes early Johannesburg property title deeds, pioneering gold mining minute books, maps, indentures, military medals, a letter by Sir Lionel Phillips, rare books, and items featuring iconic signatures, including that of Nelson Mandela.

In conversation with JHF chair David Fleminger and heritage luminary Kathy Munro, Fred will discuss the thrill of collecting: where to find hidden treasures, how to recognise rarity and authenticity, lessons learned from costly mistakes, and why an original signature can transform an ordinary book into an extraordinary historical object.

The JHF Book Room will open for book sales from 09:00 to 13:00, with the main Book Talk commencing at 10:00. Admission is free. Selected original indenture documents from Fred Oppenheimer’s collection will be available for purchase, with all proceeds directly benefiting the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation.