Welcome to Plett History
The Van Plettenberg Historical Society was established in 1980. A non-profit organisation, it has staged some 175 talks over the last 30 years. Subjects have ranged largely over the fascinating local history (and pre-history) of the area, from the last Ice Age to the comparatively recent past.
Upcoming Meetings
19 August 2022 – The History of Forest Hall – A talk and tour by Murray Crawford
We have been fascinated for generations about the origin and history of Forest Hall. Built in 1864 it was the first manor house in the Plettenberg Bay section of the garden Route. It was the South African seat of the Newdigate family. Of aristocratic English origins,...
Latest Talks
Rosiland Ballingall
Hi All, The Rosiland saga has sat with me for over the 40 years that I have lived in Plett. I...
Epic Map produced by the Van Plettenberg Historical Society
See original article...
Dr Mark Brown: 20 years of conservation in Plett
20 years of conservation in Plett.The developing role of the Nature’s Valley Trust Dr Mark Brown,...
Dr. Clive Noble: The History of Fine Art
Dr. Clive Noble: The History of Fine Art. Date: 12th of September 2019 Venue: This will take place...
George von dem Bussche: The Forests of the Southern Cape
SPEAKER: George von dem Bussche TOPIC: The Forests of the Southern Cape DATE: Sunday, 12th May...
Curtis Marean – Palaeoscience Research
Videoed & Edited by Fred Vorster - Follow on Youtube ...
While a list of talks has been provided elsewhere on this site, we also show some
places of historical interest. These will be added to over time.
About Us
The Van Plettenberg Historical Society was established in 1980. A non-profit organisation, it has staged some 175 talks over the last 30 years. Subjects have ranged largely over the fascinating local history (and pre-history) of the area, from the last Ice Age to the comparatively recent past.
We would also welcome voluntary contributions towards the Society’s activities. Members of the Historical Society are also available to answer questions about the archaeology of the area; its more recent, recorded or documented history; or to visit together some or all of the historical relics and exhibits.
The Constitution enjoins members to
Transcripts or summaries
- Collect and collate information.
- Distribute and make available to a wider public the fruits of these activities.
- Preserve buildings and artefacts of historical interest.
- Collect and preserve documents.
Transcripts or summaries
Transcripts or summaries of the talks are available on request to the Society. They will be forwarded by email or post for a fee, which covers the costs of scanning or photocopying (if necessary). For further information on the history of Plettenberg Bay and related matters