The heartbreak of a vanishing tradition: Robben Island Weddings
Valentine’s Day, for some, is simply a day marked by roses, chocolates, and sweet words exchanged between lovers.
But for a few lucky couples, it once held an extraordinary significance—especially for those who were blessed enough to say their vows at the historic Robben Island Chapel.
The tradition began in 2000, the year of the millennium celebrations. Inspired by Martha Mgxashe, the former regional director of the Department of Home Affairs, the event was a unique collaboration between the Department of Home Affairs and the Robben Island Museum.
Couples from all walks of life, especially those from less fortunate backgrounds, were given a rare opportunity to marry on this iconic, yet solemn, site. It was more than just a wedding; it was a symbol of resilience, hope, and the power of love to transcend hardship.
The first time William John Lawrence set foot on Robben Island was in 2010, for work during the fervour of the World Cup.
It was a professional visit, but little did he know that the island, so rich in its historical significance, would hold a deeply personal meaning for him in the years to come.
He didn’t return until 2017, when he took his fiancée there to marry on Valentine's Day.
"It was the first time I went for a personal reason," he reflected.
"Robben Island holds a very important meaning for me. Growing up, understanding the political struggle, and then going to commit to my partner and taking that vow in front of God... To start our journey in a place like Robben Island is like a beacon of hope."
The island was not just a backdrop to their ceremony, but a living symbol of the struggles that directly shaped the lives they were about to build together.
For Lawrence and his partner, it was made even more magical, including the culmination of twelve years of love and perseverance.
“I was unemployed for a while, but I was very involved with educational programs and she had just finished her studies.
“We knew we wanted to get married and planned to, but at that time couldn't afford to.
“I wanted to make it special for her, so when we received the opportunity to do it, and on Robben Island, wow.”
Lawrence said the simple yet profound act of exchanging vows at such a meaningful site turned their union into something much bigger than a mere ceremony.
"People born prior to democracy, for us Robben Island is Madiba.
“The island carries the spirit of Nelson Mandela and all the other unsung heroes who fought for freedom.
“It is a place of profound historical significance, a place where the legacy of the struggle and overcoming lives and we were there, right there.
“That is why I believe If you start your marriage on a place like Robben Island is something beautiful, that place that carries so much hope.
“Now we got our own house, vehicles, and it all started at that Robben Island moment, because we got married, and came back with a purpose, its sad that other couples can’t experience that.”
Lawrence was referring to the end of the Valentines event in 2021, when the tradition came to a heart-wrenching halt due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“It’s really sad,” Lawrence began..
“Robben Island should never disappear out of the public domain, the weddings was one way to keep many people speaking of the Island for years to come, now my kids wont even get the opportunity to get married on the Island and its something I always envisioned that our children get married at the same Chapel like us.”
The Department of Home Affairs did not respond to questions about the popular event returning.
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za