Cape Storm: Fire destroys 300-year-old Blaauwklippen Manor House
The iconic Blaauwklippen Manor House was demolished by a blaze fuelled by strong winds on Sunday (7 April) morning.
Blaauwklippen Manor House, built on one of the oldest wine farms in Stellenbosch (founded in 1682), was gutted by a blaze on Sunday morning.
The Manor House was built in 1789. The latest edition (2018) to the house, a popular wedding venue, has also been destroyed.
The centuries-old heritage building saw its demise when a fire broke out at a neighbouring farm, resulting in the devastating destruction of some of the estate's buildings.
Strong gale-force winds fuelled the blaze.
"Six firefighting teams, including Blaauwklippen’s Disaster Management team and neighbouring farms, were on the scene within minutes to attend to the fire, one of five in the area. Battling winds of up to 139km per hour. There were no injuries although the destruction was devasting," posted Blaauwklippen to social media.
Jonkershuis and Manor House at Blaauwklippen burnt to the ground. Stellenbosch pic.twitter.com/vgWtLP2hPG
— Greg Davies (@the_gregdavies) April 7, 2024
Our prayers are with @Blaauwklippen after the heartbreaking destruction by gale force winds. Despite losing iconic buildings like the Jonkershuis and Manor House, we're grateful no injuries occurred, thanks to swift firefighting response. Our hearts are with all affected. pic.twitter.com/v9TJwtusDW
— WineLand Media (@WineLandSA) April 7, 2024
Winds are a big factor in the spread of fires. Especially over a dry area. The windspeed in Stellenbosch & Paarl was averaging between 30 & 40 km/h with gusts @ 60 to 120 km/h. This is sad. 🤕 #saws @SAWeatherServic https://t.co/r4Qu76JL2p
— Lehlohonolo (Thee weather prophet🌧). (@hlonithobela) April 7, 2024