The name Roodewal originates from the deep red soil of the Brondal Valley, a fertile expanse that has sustained Lowveld agriculture for generations. At the heart of this landscape stands a homestead approaching its centenary, notable for being one of the region’s earliest guest houses.
BOOK REVIEWS
It is appropriate to begin with a declaration of interest: I contributed a chapter on Prynnsberg and supported the publication of this book. That proximity, however, also allows for a fuller appreciation of both its achievements and its limitations.
BLUE PLAQUES
Fordsburg was the centre of the Miners’ Strike and the Standard Bank branch on this site was forced to close its doors on 7 March. Staff returned to work the next day but the doors remained closed. On 9 March the strikers were shooting alongside the building, using it as a screen. One rifleman was firing next to the manager’s window where he doggedly continued working. He and his staff escaped later that day.