Sammy Marks House, Zwartkoppies

The Sammy Marks House is a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. Especially if you enjoy a good history lesson about one of the more influential South African Figures of yesteryear. On a trip back to South Africa to visit family a few years ago we went to the family "Farm"...which is also now known as the Sammy Marks Museum. My grandmother Jill showed us her room growing up, where her grandfather used to entertain, and some of the intricacies of the estate. Architecturally it is an amazingly well kept example of Victorian Manor living, while also lends particular insight into the life of Sammy Marks. Of special interest is the Snooker Room which houses the original 19th century table, and the Bechtstein Grand Piano. Also a delightful lunch was provided in the garden, that was extremely tasty. For me, visiting the home of my great-great grandfather, great grandfather and grandmother was the highlight of my entire South African trip. Jamie Terence Katzen Dallas, Texas

We went on an excursion in 1997, with the high school I was attending. They showed us the undergroun cellar (the entrance is on ground level, you go down stairs), and Lady Marks's garden Labyrinth, which is all plants. in its middle a solitaire flagpole stands. Romour has it that the house is haunted by someone, whom I'm not sure. Baywatch Dude