On 22nd March 2009, Aberdeen was host to the Graaff-Reinet and Districts Heritage Society and their guests. The visitors began their tour of heritage sites at the ‘Kerk-Saal’ where Mrs Estelle Snyman gave an instructive explanation of the beautifully constructed ‘Wall Hangings’ designed by Johanna Konig, who with Estelle, and other committed woman members of the NG Kerk had made. These ‘Wall Hangings’ completed in 1999 depict scenes from the Old and New Testament, and deserve an entire detailed article of intense subject matter.The visitors were then shown the NG Kerk which is built in the centre of Aberdeen Town. This Church, the building of which was instigated by the Rev Andrew Murray, and finally completed in 1908, as it was built in two stages, has a steeple which can be seen from 27kms outside Aberdeen on the road from Graaff-Reinet. This imposing church is able to seat 2000 people and has an austere beauty.
The next heritage site visited was Pagel House which is now a B&B. Owned and run by Lynn Dugmore, this stately Victorian Home with beautifully designed and comfortable rooms was built in 1897 and has a magical garden with long sloping lawns shaded by overhanging willow trees.
Tea was served in the home of David Miller. This recently restored home was used by the British Garrison during the Boer War. It was here that the British horses were stabled and it was here that the Boer’s successfully made a raid, stealing all the horses and so leaving the British soldiers without transport.
The next port of call was another Victorian/Edwardian Home which used to be known as ‘De Denne’. This gracious homestead is now a well-known restaurant and B&B.
Here in the elegant dining-room of the ‘Karoomoons’ a delicious finger luncheon of Indian delicacies was presented to the visitors. The setting of this homestead and the stunning facilities, all lovingly restored by Ernest and Ramsay, deserve the ‘four stars’ recently granted to this establishment.
The visitors were then shown another Victorian masterpiece, ‘Carmen Villa’. The exterior and the interior of this beautiful old home, depicts an era of graciousness, wealth and immaculate taste.
Coffee was served at ‘Moer-Toe’. This restaurant will prove to be a traveler’s delight when driving through the Karoo. These heritage sites mentioned are only a few of the many Aberdeen has to offer, and hopefully these friendly Graaff-Reinet visitors will return to view all the other wonderful heritage sites as yet unseen by them, of which Aberdeen is very proud.
Article By: Joan Tinker