This historical church in Vanrhynsdorp, Namaqualand is for sale at R1.95 million.

In the heart of Namaqualand at the foot of the Matzikamma Mountains, lies the historical town of Vanrhynsdorp, where a 1931 historical church property on a 3 000m² stand with a separate 120m² house, a borehole and 100 olive trees is for sale through Seeff, priced at R1.95 million.

“This beautifully restored property would appeal to a buyer who wants to own a piece of history to live in or to convert into a guest house or boutique hotel,” says Seeff Swartland managing director, Simon Mouton.

“The church was built in typical Cape Dutch style in 1931 by the townspeople for the coloured community at a cost of 1,674 pounds,” says Seeff agent, Mientjie Van den Heever. “The first corner stone was laid on September 19 1931 and the first meeting held on December 26.”

The church operated until 1967 when it was abandoned as the coloured community was relocated to Maskamsig as a result of the Group Areas Act. After that, the church stood empty for a year and was then was used as a milk pasteurisation and bottling facility. In 1971, it was bought by a Messrs Barnie Barnard and Simmie Lazarus who converted it into a general store. It later became a supermarket, was vacant for a period and again served as a church from 1996 to 2007.

“Spotting its potential, Mr and Mrs Carruthers bought the property in June 2007 and restored it using only the best quality materials,” says van den Heever.

“Today the church is a 500m² house with a large entertainment space for up to 70 guests and the second 120m² house has two bedrooms. During the flower season, the whole property is surrounded by Namaqualand flowers and it has served as a guest house for visitors who flock to the area.

“The main house has a large 250m² living area, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, a kitchen with a scullery and a pantry and an enclosed patio, all with wooden floors. There are two garages and outside toilet facilities. The property is zoned for business.”

Vanrhynsdorp is a three hour drive from Cape Town and 30 minutes from pristine beaches. Historical attractions include South African War graves and headquarters, Jan Smuts’ residence, a jailhouse dating back to 1895 and a museum dated 1897.

Call Mientjie van den Heever on 083 643 5588.