Zoutpansberger
History

A hunt for Swiss missionaries' graves reveals more than just pictures

The Cuénod legacy: from Switzerland to Valdezia

By Anton van Zyl • 16 December 2023
A hunt for Swiss missionaries' graves reveals more than just pictures

A family's search for missionary graves in Valdezia uncovers the rich history of Swiss missionaries, their vital role in developing the Xitsonga language, and the personal sacrifices made while establishing the Swiss Mission in South Africa.

A short email received two weeks ago prompted the search for graves. Perhaps the relatively slow weekend, with little happening, contributed to the decision to explore the final resting place of two missionaries, René Cuénod and his wife, Marguerite.

“My grandfather was a Swiss missionary who worked in the area of Louis Trichardt, the Swiss mission hospital, Lemana, and Valdezia,” wrote Michael A. Cuénod. He explained that his grandfather had died around late 1980 and was buried alongsi...

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