historical & heritage research
Archival and documentary research to provide local content for heritage projects
I work with organisations to discover their unique stories based on their histories and local context. Every business has a unique narrative about their history, the people who work for them, and their place in a region or community. These histories are a powerful asset in a market place that is saturated with generic content.
Local content and history are effective assets in content development strategies and branding
Narrative content can also provide authentic historical context to everyday farming activities. For example, archival research on the history of jackal-proof fencing can add a sustainability dimension to a sheep farm enterprise in the Great Karoo.
Every organisation has a history, a valuable asset that includes its founding members, the people who built it, and the events that shaped it. Many agricultural and wine industries have a strong regional footprint with links to local history. Wine estates can be linked to local history, family histories, geological features in the landscape, and sustainability in terms of the Cape Floral Kingdom and endemic wildlife species.
What I offer
- Archival, documentary and desktop research
- Deeds Office research on historical properties
- Genealogical research on heritage properties’ owners
- Historical context
What to expect
- Flat fee negotiated up front for basic, exploratory research
- A follow-up meeting to discuss potential directions for additional research
- My terms: 50% deposit for new clients.
Why work for me
- Subcontracting experience working with cultural historians on heritage buildings and properties in the Cape Winelands
- Worked on oral history projects and large-format books to commemorate corporate milestones
- Training and experience as a journalist has given me the ability to sift through information to find engaging stories
- I have practical experience as a volunteer chairperson for a private town archive.
Large-format book projects in my portfolio
- Isipani Construction, Paarl (2020)
- Doolhof Wine Estate, Wellington (2012)
- J van der Sluys Construction, Paarl (2010)
- Sillery Manor, Cape Town (2010)
- JA Clift: Century in Stone, Paarl (2006)
- SAAO: Africa’s Giant Eye, Cape Town (2007)
- Winelands of the Cape, Hoberman, Cape Town (2006)
Blog posts on the importance of local content for branding
SMEs are in a unique position to use local content and cultural context to build trust and a deeper connection with their customers. AI tools are very effective in generating draft content, but one thing it cannot do is generate local content. This is particularly important for SMEs who often have to compete with franchises and international companies. [More]
The subtle differences between local content, local history and localisation are often difficult to understand. In short, local content is created content, while localisation adapts existing content. [More]
When I do genealogical or archival research to determine the timelines of historical properties, I often go through the inventories drawn up after a property owner’s death. These inventories are a rich source of information on the individual’s properties and wealth; they also provide tantalising adjacent information. [More]
TRANSFORM YOUR CONTENT FOR LOCAL IMPACT