The Parsonage / Pastorie
A poorly built parsonage was erected in 1743, at the same time as the Old Church (Oude Kerk) at the opposite end of Church Street. When the original building threatened to collapse on the resident minister, the whole community turned out to rebuild it. Dating from 1765, this fine U-shaped house is in near original condition and follows the grand proportions of high Cape Dutch style with large sash windows, half sized Dutch shutters, an ornate doorway and breathtaking Hol-Bol gable. A stable was added in 1777, a gabled wine cellar in 1783, a mill in 1790, as well as extensive slave quarters and storage rooms in 1805.
Detailed records show that the entire Roodezandt congregation and Tulbagh community came together to assist with this project, which certainly helped to coalesce the community - resulting in the eventual development of a village of tradesmen, traders and farmers, missionaries, servants as well as slaves all working together to rebuild a house worthy of housing their minister.
The parsonage was restored and declared a national monument some years before the earthquake (in 1969), demolition was considered but subsequently avoided when the parsonage and outbuildings were repaired. Remarkably this is still the home of the NG Church Minister more than 240 years after being built. The out buildings have been used continuously as schools and community meeting points.
This is the oldest standing parsonage in South Africa that is still used for it's original purpose.
I'm from Tulbagh, Western Cape, South Africa. Tulbagh is a small farming community.
Get Pushed Challenge: I have been doing this challenge on and off...
perfect shot and perfect response to your challenge. the wrough iron gate mirrors the patterns in the windows and upper portion of the door. i think the simplicity is intentional so that it doesn't take away from the design of the facade and the fence. great shot, sally.
