William Martinson

The copper domed Wits Planetarium with its slender columned portico is a recognisable and well-known landmark on Yale Road on the East Campus of the University of the Witwatersrand. The Planetarium was completed in 1960 and was notable for its extraordinary Zeiss planetarium projector.

For over 60 years, the Planetarium, the largest in sub-Saharan Africa, has had a significant impact on the University and the broader community, with many thousands of visitors having experienced the projected celestial wonders. A high-profile Centenary project for Wits was to transform the Planetarium, into a fully interactive digital system.

The newly named Wits Anglo American Digital Dome project aims to create a visualization laboratory within this iconic landmark. This will broaden its role well beyond astronomy, re-imagine its potential on a 21st Century campus, and enable unparalleled community engagement.

Kate Otten Architects (KOA) were appointed by the University of the Witwatersrand in 2021 as the architects for the adaptive re-use of the Planetarium. Noting the heritage importance and sensitivity of this building KOA appointed William Martinson as their specialist Heritage Architect.
 

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Johann Bruwer's contribution to heritage conservation in Johannesburg - and indeed elsewhere on the Witwatersrand and in Gauteng - cannot be overestimated; he was a friend as well as a colleague and his warmth and generosity will always be remembered. Johann suffered a massive heart attack on 9 September 2021 and despite bravely persevering passed away on 17 September 2021.

Johann was born on 21 June 1954 and attended school in Alberton, but matriculated in Windhoek after his parents relocated to Namibia. He served with the 3rd SA Infantry Battalion and the Johannesburg Regiment and then commenced studies at the Rand Afrikaans University, and was awarded his BA, BA Hons, MA and Doctoral degrees.

Johann's detailed research and documentation learnt during his years at university were to become his trademark. Very specific aspects of the Second World War were investigated for his Master's thesis. His subject (translated from the Afrikaans) was 'The Role of the Sixth South African Armoured Division in the Deployment of the Allied Offensive in Italy; The Battle of Monte Stanco, October 7-13, 1944'. The Master's degree was awarded with distinction.

Johann's doctoral thesis was titled (again translated from the Afrikaans): 'The role of the Sixth South African Armoured Division in Italy: 27 May to 8 August 1944'. The degree was awarded in April 1991. Much of the original research for both higher degrees was conducted through interviews with veterans of the Italian campaign.

Johann had joined the S.A. National Museum of Military History in Saxonwold as...