The family name "Minnaar" is derived from the name french name "Mesnard" probably misinterpreted by the dutch as "Minnaar" meaning "Lover".

During the 17th century, many french hugenots left europe to all parts of the world, seeking refuge from persecution of non-catholics at the time. Some of the Mesnard family departed for colonies around the world such as canada, united states and south africa. Today the family name has since been changed to many derivatives some of which are Maynard, Meinhard and Minnaar.

For the sake of future generations, I have taken some time to study a little more about my family geneaology.

The South African "Minnaar" and how it came it to be:

In 1688 Jean Mesnard and Louise Colbott landed in Cape Town in the ship the named the Berg China. They had with them three children, Jean, Phillip and (?)... Phillip was the only one of the sons who married, and it as far as it is known, all decendants, therefore, are of the Minnaar family in southern africa are decendents of Phillip Mesnard.

To be continued...