Preserving History: The Legacy of the Old Timber Shed
The Old Timber Shed stands as a testament to centuries of history, its weathered walls echoing tales of commerce and craftsmanship dating back to its construction in 1786. Nestled within the quaint streets of Meeding Street, it was here that the Dutch East India Company commissioned Johann Jacob Jerling to erect the Timber Shed, destined to house the towering logs destined for the construction of Cape Town’s iconic Castle.
Fast forward to the present day, where the Van Plettenberg Historical Society convened its latest meeting on February 20, 2024, amidst the storied walls of the Old Rectory. Amidst the gathering, the society welcomed its newest members, Dion and Andre Jerling, whose presence infused the proceedings with a renewed sense of purpose and energy. As discussions unfolded under the guidance of Rodney Grosskopff, renowned architect and visionary behind Johannesburg’s Ponte Towers, plans began to crystallize for the Timber Shed’s future.
Envisioned as more than a mere relic of the past, the Timber Shed is poised to undergo a transformation into a vibrant hub of culture and community. Plans include the creation of a museum, coffee shop, and tourist information center, alongside a modern auditorium designed to showcase the rich tapestry of Plett’s history through multimedia presentations.
Against the backdrop of the Old Rectory’s sun-dappled courtyard, where the Reverend Edwin Gibbs once dwelled, the society’s aspirations take on a tangible sense of urgency and purpose. As the meeting drew to a close, the clinking of champagne flutes and the aroma of freshly baked croissants served as a fitting tribute to the enduring legacy of the Timber Shed and the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.
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