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
Richly decorated and delicately sculptured, the Art Nouveau façade flows around the corner, with a picturesque tower and gables along the roofline. The plans by brothers Arthur and Walter Reid date from 1899, but the Boer War intervened, amd the hotel was only completed in 1902. This was a popular watering-hole with local residents, and its handsome bar counter was famous.