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This is an exceptional piece of South African "Africana" with deep ties to the foundational history of the country's social welfare system. This sterling silver presentation trowel, crafted by the renowned Sheffield silversmiths James Deakin & Sons (JDWD), was presented to Reverend (Ds) Pieter du Toit on 8 May 1926.
The occasion was the laying of the cornerstone for the Dutch Reformed Church (NG Kerk) hall in Lichtenburg, marking a significant moment in the early career of a man who would become a national figure in poverty relief and social reform.
Reverend Pieter du Toit (1892-1973) was a pioneer of social work in South Africa. His career highlights include:
Pioneer of Poverty Relief: He established the welfare branch of the NG Kerk in 1926.
International Study: In 1932, he was awarded a prestigious Carnegie Corporation bursary to study social welfare systems in the United States.
National Leadership: He chaired the 1934 National Congress on the Poor White Problem (Volkskongres), working alongside deputy chair HF Verwoerd.
Government Service: He served as South Africa's very first Commissioner for Social Welfare from 1935 to 1938.
The blade features a beautifully preserved Afrikaans inscription:
"Aan Ds P Du Toit ter herinnering aan die hoeksteenlegging van die kerksaal te Lichtenburg op 8 Mei 1926."
MATERIAL: Solid Sterling Silver (925 Hallmark).
MAKER: JDWD (James Deakin & William Deakin), Sheffield, England.
DATE: Hallmarked for 1925/1926.
HANDLE: Exquisitely carved natural material (ivory or high-quality bone) with a decorative terminal.
DIMENSIONS: Total length 30cm. Silver blade measures 15.5cm x 9cm.
The trowel is in excellent antique condition. The silver is bright with clear, deep hallmarks and engraving.
Note on Handle: There is a small, fine crack in the handle. This appears to be a natural tear or "drying crack" common in organic materials of this age (bone/ivory) and does not affect the structural integrity or the firmness of the handle.
