THE FOWLDES FAMILY & LEUWENBOSCHH

I

Bill Fowldes, whiskey always in hand & often a pipe, told us his ancestors history. Slightly slurred we listened with interest. What a character he is & 80

After the Napoleonic wars, Britain was in a sorry state. The British army arriving home had to be paid.  Not being able to afford this, the soldiers were offered a package - a trip to Port Elizabeth with a parcel of farming land.  

These were the early settlers some 4000 in early 1815

It was in 1857 that 400 people were on the ship above.  Many died especially children as obviously it was a very onerous and frightening journey . They left Liverpool on 26 November 1857 & arrived at the end of February 1858.    Not realising the dangers of Xhosa & Koisan tribes, also roaming wild animals 

The photo below of Bills great grandparents who were on the ship above.

Being a blacksmith,  the first William Fowldes started building wagons near Port Elizabeth which was a huge success in these early days of the Settlers. He was soon able to travel to his own parcel of land. It was right on the route of the travellers going to the mine fields in the north.  William was able to start farming and building a business which has been handed down to five generations.

A photo of one of Williams carts.

The original bill of sale granting Fowldes the land

Sadly many people couldn't make their farms work and after ten years returned to Britain. Only four or five, in this area succeeded and whose generations are altogether today.  It is this group who formed Amahkala and switched dairy farming back to the original wild animals.

What history.

LEUWENBOSH

The Fowldes farm called Leuwenbosch  is now a country manor with sweeping lawns, beautiful gardens and litte quiet corners; stunning views. Verandas wrap around the building with wicker sofas outside each room - very comfortable for doing a suduko or having a nap!!

Cattle sheds have been converted to luxury ensuites. We are in Shearers Lodge with far reaching views

For each 50 hectares of land = one tourist bedroom . This is how Amakhala is run fairly by the group.

The swimming pool area is a delight with beautiful birds flying around. A gentle breeze and hot sun - blissful

They also have the cutest chapel which is used each week

There is an amazing calmness in these beautiful gardens, steeped in history. Incredible that Leuwenbosch has passed down so many generations. We are lucky to have met this family and enjoy its uniqueness.  

The best part is The Pub, a cellar. Stone walls & floor, lamps and atefacts - it's Bills favourite place. Encouraging guests before and after dinner to join him!!!!! His lovely wife Rose looks on!!  It's so different!