A Farming Heritage

On Saturday morning we met some friends on a visit from England at the Shongweni Farmers Market. Although within easy distance, it is somewhere we have not previously visited, and we were glad the venue had been chosen. The views are pleasant, with a spectacularly high waterfall across the gorge, and there is a playground for the kids.

As a legacy of the farming Heritage, markets where farmers can sell their produce have been part of the local scene for any number of years. This one, though, only started in 1998. It had twelve stalls that year, but as the pictures show it has grown considerably since. In common with such markets here and in other parts of the world, it has aslso been expanded to include some arts and crafts stalls. Many of these produce excellent goods, and it is pleasing that the mass-produced junk that often finds its way into such scenes is not present.

As another refreshing aspect of this market, dogs are welcomed provided the owner has them on a lead and carries a plastic bag and the knowledge and ability to use it. The grandchildren were entranced by the dogs of all sizes and shapes to be seen accompanying their owners. Many, like the Great Dane, were so well-mannered that the lead was not in use. One Boxer had his lead in his own mouth. Yappy smaller ones were constantly trying to break free of their restraints, though.

We bought a farm while we were there. More about that in the next post.

© May 2017 Colonialist