Paardevlei Social History & Architecture
November 16 @ 9:30 am - 12:30 pm
R400
This area is full history and gradual changes. The buildings and landscape are highly maintained in one part, and in another unused and overgrown. Tourist guide, Dr Timothy Visser, has been studying it for years – he has lived nearby in Somerset West all his life. He has access to the old, large hostel compound, closed to the public.
Timothy gives context to the site. South African’s development from agricultural to industrial and now post industrial, comes to life with his stories. Some of this history is uncomfortable, but important, to hear.
Being so close to Somerset West, it is prime residential land with its lakeside and mountain views. A new Checkers hypermarket opened in May by the private hospital. There is Herbert Baker and Francis Massey architecture in one section and old abandoned hostels in the other.
Come and see it before too many more changes.
Saturday 16 November 2024
9h30 to 12h30
R300 per person paying pre 6 Nov, otherwise R400
Meet and finish at: Lorenzo Marx Coffee Bar Paardevlei
25 De Beers Avenue
Paardevlei
Somerset West
Do join Timothy for lunch afterwards at Lorenzo Marx Cafe; menu here
Available as a private tour, just let me know dates
Also on Friday 18 October 2024; more will be planned in 2025; interested?
To book: kate@cultureconnectsa.com WhatsApp/phone +27 (0)72 377 8014
Images: Admin Block ex AECI (De Beers Explosive Works) Baker & Masey 1900 || Ex AECI Power Station 1903 || Culture Connectors 2022 || Old labour compound
