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
This is the site of the house built for Rowland Albermarle Arthur Bettington, a stockbroker, who raised “Bettington’s Horse” in 1895 and rode out to support Dr Jameson’s abortive invasion of the Transvaal. In 1899 Bettington with his four sons volunteered. He joined Thorneycroft’s Mounted Infantry with the rank of captain and fought in the Natal campaign until he was wounded at Spionkop.