Farmhouses of Old Natal

The Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal is full of hidden gems that are part of the South African landscape. Many early farmhouses have remained as family homes, often still inhabited by their descendants. The position of a number of these houses is not secure and the cost of maintaining old homesteads and the increasing spread of timber farms has meant that several houses have been let to uncaring tenants – some are now derelict; abandoned; and in the worst case scenario have been demolished.

In short, the future of some of these country homesteads, is bleak and insecure. Now is the time to photograph, document and record the history of these homesteads and interview the families concerned, while remaining family members are still able to provide these details. There is a small selection of books available that contain valuable material, but none portray striking colour photographs of the houses, their location, interesting rooms with family memorabilia and their gardens. This book will fill that gap.

Otterley Press has selected a representation of thirty-six houses, from the humble to the grand, to preserve for posterity a record that will illustrate their importance as heritage buildings; repositories of South African history, and their charm as family homes. Most importantly this book will bring their beauty and plight back into the public consciousness.

 The book is edited by Jacqueline Kalley with photographs by Hugh Bland.

ADVANCE COPIES

You can participate in the pre-publication sales of the book by purchasing an advance copy. In recognition, your name will appear in the back of the book as one of the sponsors.

There will be a choice of a Standard Edition in soft cover or a Collectors’ (Africana) Edition of 25 numbered and signed hard-covered copies.