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
Designed by FLH Fleming in 1926, the house displays many trademarks of the Baker tradition, but the crisply articulated portico lends it a sophistication that wouldn’t be out of place in a London townhouse. It was owned by the Oates family from 1933 to 1989. Originally from Australia, Bert Oates and his Brother Len were pioneers in the automative retail and manufacture industry in South Africa.