Urban Adventures: Northwards 1904 Mansion Tour

Northwards 1904 Mansion - Rockridge Road Parktown Tour

Urban Adventures - exploring our past in Johannesburg

Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

This is the start of my series of Jozi's Old Buildings and Heritage blogs. As a Christmas present I received a magnificent book, HIDDEN JOHANNESBURG by Paul Duncan and Alain Proust highlighting 28 of Johannesburg's stunning old buildings, steeped in history, one of which is my very own parish church, St Charles in Victory park, fondly known as the Lemon Squeezer!

Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Today my daughter, a history and art major and high school teacher, joined me to explore the Northwards 1904 Mansion, its many towers visible as you drive along Jan Smuts road. I was very excited to be able to take photos inside the mansion, to be able to check out first hand its grand Australian Teak furnishings, Anton van Wouw's beautiful lattice work - Flemish gables, the famous Steinburg grand piano, its Maud Sumner paintings, and last but not least, the chessboard patterned marble tiled entrance hall that was reportedly mopped daily with milk! To be able to see first hand Baker's beloved Arts and Crafts style was a huge treat and the rest of the Mansion well I was about to enter into Historical Paradise!

Adventurekim.com Northwards Mansion #Nikon

Adventurekim.com Northwards Mansion - the Wits Student Res - an eyesore where the original stables were housed

We arrived at the entrance and I was really surprised to see the Wits student res flats, which is where the stables used to be. They are really ugly and it is such a pity that the stables and much of the expansive terraced garden, once surely a sight to behold, now gone. We were told how many of the outside light fittings and ornamental fittings had been stolen which is why we now see the electric fencing, barbed wire fencing, beams and alarm systems in place.

The Bust of Herbert Baker - the original Brass one sit on the stair lading in the main house. Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Standing Tall at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The security guard took one look at our slightly confused faces and beckoned, with a huge smile on his face to turn right. We must of looked like the type of people to come and tour the mansion! A group of people had already started to congregate and the excited chatter was infectious. We were welcomed by the smiling and passionate Kennedy from Micro-adventures, who had organised this tour. He organizes cycling tours around Jozi and Sani Pass for those that are interested, here is his face book page link Micro-Adventures

Mushroom in the lawn at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Guinea fowl feather on the grass at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Looking up at the impressive south wall you cannot but help admire its workmanship and the huge physical effort it would have taken to create it. The wall is simply stunning with about a third of the wall made up of quartzite, the rest is covered with a rough white plaster right up to the roof, this is typical of the Arts and Crafts style and Baker.

You cannot help to admire the grand looking entrance portico, which is topped by a rather magnificent Cape Dutch gable. It is evident from the outside that the architecture is an eclectic mix of styles creating a visual treat of Tudor, Palladian (Venetian styled) and English styled windows and what a surprise we even saw a window in a chimney. The chimney flue split into two to go around on either side of the window. Was this a taste of what lay behind the walls?

The typical Herbert Baker Cape Dutch Style Gables at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

We wondered around the gardens a bit and took a few photos while waiting for everyone to arrive. Back in its heyday several gardeners would have been working the huge grounds, today the grounds are much smaller and only one very dedicated and talented gardener shapes and takes care of the garden...and boy what a masterpiece he has created! The lawns are lush and green. Your feet sink deep into the grass with borders of trimmed hedges, roses, lavender bushes and magnificent hydrangeas in shades of pink, blue, lilac and white. Huge jacaranda and fir trees as well as several magnificent white stink wood trees line the boarders. We spent nearly an hour just walking around the grounds before we even went into the house.

The Magnificent stained glass windows depleting the family coat of arms/family crest of George Albu's family. Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Kennedy then introduced us to Mr Shakespeare himself, Northwards Shakespearean curator Dr Neil Viljoen (he has a PhD in Shakespeare and has written many study guides our schools use today), who entertained us for four facilitating hours, narrating the stories, anecdotes and the history of a place that he himself has lived in for 28 years, together with his wife and their children. What a place for children to have gown up here. I was in awe and a little jealous that I had not been able to grown up here.

The beautiful Sir Herbert Baker Cape Dutch Style entrance to Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Only one of the original lanterns remain, the other a replica. One of the lanterns was stolen! Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful carved wooden doors and arches at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The front of the house remains in true Baker with its stone walls, palladian windows, a tall oriel window, an Italian staircase leading onto a three-arched veranda with the balcony above. You may ask what is palladain architecture? Well is a European style of architecture inspired by the designs of the Venetian architect Andrea Palladio (1508–1580). Today what is recognized and accepted as Palladian is really an evolution of Palladio's original concepts.

Luckily for us despite its history the house still stands today, although below to the right much of the original grounds were expropriated to accommodate the noisy M1 Freeway below. The original 9 hector Northwards garden stretched down to Oxford road in the east which was actually part of the "sachenwaldt" forest - now known as Saxonwold. This is where José used to ride her horses down into the forest. She was apparently easy to recognize while riding in her trademark green velvet riding habit. Talking of horses the beautiful gabled stables with their teak fittings and rose garden made way for the student residents and the gatehouse which was below the house was demolished to make way for the M1 Freeway.The South African institute of Architects also work from the Mansion we were told.

Dr Viljoen is a great story teller with a keen sense of humour and his passion for this home becomes more and more evident as the tour progresses. Dr Viljoen and his wife continue to live here in a flat making up some of the 40 rooms. One of his daughters had her wedding here, it must of been really magnificent and a rather grand affair. He went on to tell us that the Parktown and Westcliff Heritage Trust has its headquarters here. This Trust was established after many old homes were torn down as they were deemed to "promote English liberalism" so something had to be done to preserve our heritage. These beautiful old homes and gardens remind us of our colourful history right here in Johannesburg. Many school children have been able to visit these heritage sites because of the hard work this group of dedicated people have been doing.

Dr Niel Viljoen and me. This man has dedicated 28 years of his life to preserve Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker

This magnificent house was designed by Baker, Masey and Sloper for John Dale Lace, owner of the Lace Diamond Mine, and his rather glamorous wife José. In January 1901 Dale Lace raised the Johannesburg Mounted Rifles, and after the war he was to command them too. José was well known for her fantastically organised and over the top fundraising events. She celebrated Peace on 31 May 1902 with a picnic for the children of Nazareth House. [Nazareth House, an NPO, which has served the communities in Gauteng for over 150 years was established in 1896, to serve the homeless causalities of the large mining camp that was Johannesburg. It is run by the Sisters of Nazareth and as a paramedic I have gone in there several times, it is a really magnificent building. Our Catholic parish St Charles also assists with funds.]

The gardens at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The reconstruction of the original pergola and summer-house, to the vegetation and garden design were all to be restored to their original state where possible. Naturally all its old essential services like water, sewage, storm-water drains, electricity , telephone, fire hydrants, its old heaters were to be restored or replaced by new modern equipment and in line with Health and Safety regulations of today, bearing in mind this was now a museum for public viewing as well as an office.

Note all the different styles of windows at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

There are many Bay-windows at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Note how the roof slants upwards at the ends - Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful and lavishly decorated 40 roomed mansion got its rather appropriate name, Northwards for its beautiful sweeping views of the suburbs to the north and right up until the ancient Magaliesberg mountains, my weekend playground. It used to house some 50 staff on its vast property. Some of the staff were housed at the stables, while others at the gate house. Other staff stayed in the staff quarters within the mansions 40 rooms while others lived in the basement of the house. The staff also had their own rules of social standing and order it would seem.

The many beautiful shrubs and shaped hedges at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The stunning shaped hedges at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

It is really a Herbert Baker masterpiece perched on the rocky Parktown ridge just north of Doornfontein. This was Bakers first home commissioned in Johannesburg of major significance and it was styled to the famous William Morris-style Arts and Crafts. At the time in 1904 it was the most expensive piece of real estate that a still young Johannesburg had ever seen. It went for the rather princely price tag of £21,000GBP!

The group being briefed by Dr Viljoen on the lawns of Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The water fountain at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Some background history:

In March 1893 a new township popped up called Parktown just outside the city limits of Johannesburg. Parktown was run as a private estate right up until 1904. The residents were restricted to one dwelling per large property and I was amazed to find out that their sanitation was provided by a horse and cart service! The roads, as we still find them today, were cut along the natural contours of the stunning ridge - not like the more traditional geometric grid system we find today. Those old windy roads are a nightmare to drive on when you need to respond to an emergency so I am forever grateful for the more geometric grid system! Even more amazing was the fact that in the center of Parktown was a pasture known as The Oval where cows once grazed, unbelievable when you look at how built up it is now. So the idea of golf estate and secured fancy housing estates is not a new modern one at all!

Parktown Ridge is filled with many stunning buildings, some in the recognizable style of the famous British architect Sir Herbert Baker. Baker was renowned for using mostly local building materials cut from the rough quartz stone and timber to make sure the structures blended into its surrounding environment, as is evident when we look around Northwards mansion. Dr Viljoen also told us that Baker was well known for hiring various experts within their fields, who would in turn have to hire local people and up skill and train them in that particular trade and area of expertise. Therefore many jobs would be created as well as a new skilled workforce would be created. From the grounds you can look down over the Johannesburg suburbs and below several of Bakers homes can be seen. Dr Viljoen pointed out several of them to us and told us to look for their cement coloured walls. The imposing and magnificent Northwards where I stood today, was originally built after the First South African War for the then mining magnate John Dale Lace, obviously before he lost his fortune and was then unceremoniously abandoned by this socialite friends, of course!

So how exactly did John Dale Lace loose his fortune?, well apparently it was his flamboyant and ever so extravagant wife Jose's fault, well mostly, but he also made some rather bad decisions himself. She apparently spent his fortune as fast as it came in. José Dale lace entertained lavishly and was famous for her extravagant parties. She stabled zebras on the property and reportedly used them to pull her coach. Something that was been done by the rich in England. However the poor zebras did not always take kindly to being used to pull her coach. Dr Viljoen also mentioned that José also bred her famous hounds Borzoi I think, in the stables. Borzoi are also known as Russian Wolfhounds.

Image result for portraits jose dale lace breeding borzoi at northwards

Borzoi or Russian Wolfhound - From 1889 Dalziel's British Dog

Hutschenreuther Figurine of Borzois : Lot 70

The wolfhounds feature a lot during that period and it was rather fashionable for a Lady to have one. Many statures, paintings and stationery items can be found depicting the Russian Wolfhounds.

It does stand to reason that it would not be long before José extravagant spending would have dire consequences and to add to their woes much ill fortune fell upon the Dale Laces on the business side too. John was a broker in mining, finance and property and a rather wealthy man. In 1895 he was involved in the Jameson Raid in Johannesburg, which was an effort by various wealthy mine owners to overthrow the Kruger government. John was lucky he got off rather lightly with a hefty 2 000 pound fine.

The lush deep green lawns under the trees at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Poor John woes did not end there, he had to float his Lace Diamond Mine in 1899, but by 1907, the depressed conditions that followed after the Anglo Boer War (1899-1902), combined with José's rather extravagant lifestyle, forced him to close the mine. However he still managed to retain some of his directorships which assisted them financially and allowed the Dale Laces to continue to live at Northwards up until the devastating fire in 1911, but in a far more conservative manner no less. The fire in 1911 seemed to be the last straw for the Dale Laces. The fire which is believed to have started in the kitchen, all but destroyed the west wing and many of the homes beautiful contents along with it. Soon after the fire they disappeared and relocated to a more modest residence, their farm, Boschkop - where the suburb of Randpark Ridge is now located. Now I know where the street name Dale Lace comes from! Their farm Boschkop, still stands but it is now a bit rundown. Me thinks I need to go and visit it soon!

The balcony above is José Dale Laces famous bedroom balcony with incredible views over Johannesburg and the Magaliesberg mountains at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The windows are rather spectacular at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

I could not get enough of the beautifully manicured lawns and hedges at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Image Google archives

There are some gaps in the timeline but it does seem that they went off to England for a time during World War 1. Then its reported that sometime in 1922, they returned to Johannesburg and that the ever industrious José opened an exclusive dress shop. In 1925 they bought a modest two-bed-roomed house in Ferreira Street, Kenilworth, a suburb found in the south of the city.

Ferreira Street Kenilworth today Image Google maps

This is where they spent the rest of their days, until her death in 1937. José was only 68 years old when she died due to various illnesses and John who is reputedly to have said that "Living with José was hell, but it was a worse hell without her", died a short three weeks after her!

Me standing below José Portrait at Northwards

So who was José Dale lace before she became Lady of Northwards and today, a ghost?

She was born Josephine Cornelia Brink, a rather industrious platteland girl it seems, from the Karoo with big dreams and ambitions, her nickname was José. She came from a large family and José Brink was wild, young and certainly beautiful. A very bright, vivacious girl from Richmond, in the Cape, who was schooled in England and used her talents, personality and beauty to attach herself to the politically and socially well connected. She became the pet of Lady Robinson, wife of Sir Hercules Robinson, Governor of the Cape Colony and was presented at Queen Victoria's court. She was already showing signs of extravagance, pomp and ceremony!

She became the mistress of Ernest William Beckett, later Lord Grimthorpe, after meeting him in London. One of the problems of this particular story was the lack of dates. We don't know when exactly it was that José descended from high society to kept woman / mistress status but it would appear that Beckett was still married at the time. Even when his wife died, marriage remained elusive and José went on to the next phase of her social career taking to the stage under Herbert Beerbohm Tree. It was considered almost social suicide for a socialite to become an actress, quite low class and risque in fact at the time. But this was José after all and she was doing it her way. She was also reported to have been a model at some time or another according to her journal more on that later on.

Just love all the stunning arches at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Her romance with John had spanned the distance from Johannesburg to London and back, but the romance was to be plagued with grief, seduction, marriage, divorce and re-marriage before they finally settled down as a married couple, the second time around that is!. It was then that John and José decided on a new surname and called themselves Dale Lace. It was really José that had pushed for the name change. In true José style, once the name change was finalized she declared herself an English lady, but a lady she was not, she loved the men. Apparently José had many affairs with various prominent men, even a distant relative of mine Cecil John Rhodes who at the time was Prime Minster of the Cape, was rumored to have proposed to her (according to my grandfather, Oswald Rhodes, Cecil was not really liked by the family, an arrogant tyrant and that he in fact preferred men rather than ladies, so I am not sure how true that rumor of a proposal is). It is known that she also was mistress to another man: Ernest Beckett, the Baron Grimthorpe, with whom she had a son, although she claimed it was King Edward's son. It is interesting to note that she did end up putting John Dale Lace down as the father on her son Lancelot Ernest Cecil Dale Lace's birth certificate. Lancelot was born on the 24th February 1895 in Paddington, Greater London, England, United Kingdom. He died at the age of 47, killed in action at sea during WWII. José was also rumored to be the mistress of King Edward VII, until she finally settled down to marry John Dale Lace. I did a bit of research and found a bit of information on what I think is her son: He was born in England as mentioned above and came to South Africa when José returned. He later married Claudine de Villiers Dale Lace. They had a son whom they named John Douglas Dale-Lace (Dale Lace). He was born in the Western Cape and went on to become a Chartered Electrical Engineer, he died at the Margate hospital in Margate,Kent, UK at the ripe old age of 74 on the 8th June 1994. He had a son Mark Dale-Lace whom Dr Viljoen knows. Pretty cool!

José Dale Lace Portrait at Northwards Mansion
image: google

There was nothing ordinary about José who married her husband , Colonel John Dale Lace as mentioned earlier, not once but twice!. They met each other when she was in London pursuing her scandalous acting career. Legend has it she refused to consummate their first marriage because she wanted to finish the play she was acting in. Another was that she wanted to marry in a church before she would consummate the marriage. Apparently she still loved Ernest, so John, at her request, divorced her.

The second time was apparently on the rebound after Ernest refused to marry her, she and John married in Cape Town and John adopted her son. They never had children of their own.He was besotted with her and I am sure if he had a crystal ball he would not have married her!

Angel of Victory (via Bournmoor church website)

José apparently kept memoirs and as juicy as they may have seemed they did lack dates and some missing bits and detail. So was this all a fantasy or fact? However her memoirs do tell us of her being a model at some point.

Some photographs were taken by Prince Primoli to be used for a female figure, sculptured by Waldo Story in Italy back in 1894. Apparently José was the model. The sculpture was simply called "Victory".

Some research revealed that during the biography of its sculptor Waldo Story, it was discovered that the full name of the statue was actually "Angel of Victory". It was later bought by an English aristocrat on his European travels and it landed up at his estate, Lambton Castle, Durham.

In 1929 the sculpture was presented by the 5th Earl of Durham to St Barnabas Church, Bournmoor, at Houghton - Le Spring in Durham. It is a rather erotic looking angel, standing some 15ft high with a impressively wide wing span. So was the angel, now the proud possession of an English country church, indeed modeled on our glamour girl José Dale Lace? The Curator Dr Neil Viljoen told us that if you look at the statue's face it is hard not to see José's face staring back at you!

Jeppestown in 1888 - giving you an idea what parts of the old Johannesburg would have looked like during the Dale Laces time Photo credit: Johannesburg Archives

The Dale Laces first settled in Doornfontein originally, but alas this was not suitable for our dear José, she wanted more. I discovered that in the later 1890's they lived in the fancy Doornfontein mansion, Norman House. Now Norman House in its heyday was a really grand mansion frequented by the who’s who of early Johannesburg. It later became the well-known Norman Nursing Home, then a boarding house and later still an old age home. Sadly the building was demolished some years ago, not sure of the exact timeline. Norman house was originally built by JCI for mining magnet Barney Barnato in the early part of the 1890's, but it has always been associated with the Dale Laces of early fashionable Doornfontein. This mansion used to stand near the Irene Church with its front entrance facing onto End Street in close proximity to the once attractive Doornfontein Park.

Norman House was a grand mansion frequented by the who’s who of early Johannesburg.Norman House (photographed in a broken fram displayed at Bettelheim House) photo credit Johannesburg Archieves

It is reported that Florence Phillips [later Lady Florence] had explored the ridge north of Doornfontein on horse-back. It was during this time when she discovered the amazing views overlooking the Magaliesberg and as such the Parktown ridge soon became the most sought after land for the rich Rand-lords of that era. José was reported to have been a bit jealous of Lady Florence and always wanted to out trump her.

Johannesburg around 1890 - Johannesburg Archieves

Image result for Ferreira Street, Kenilworth johannesburg 1910

an old Doornfontein - Johannesburg Archives

So what did John do for his wife, he bought the 9 hectare piece of ground which had horse stables. José was quiet the accomplished horsewoman, even featuring at the Rand Agriculture shows nogal!! The land also had a dairy, a large vegetable garden, a cultivated field and even an orchard. Of course legend has it that it was José who insisted that Sir Herbert Baker design her home, I would expect nothing less of this woman! This woman was certainly a character and a very interesting one at that! Also in her mind was to build a home that would outclass that of Lady Florence Phillips!

Commisioner Street 1899

Dr Viljoen told us that its alleged that when José went shopping she would have one of her servants blow a bugle as she left her home. She would ride around in a cart pulled by four zebras and take milk baths in her marble tub - maybe that is why they had a dairy on their property! This woman beat her own drum and how!! Dr Viljoen raised an interesting question - after the milk baths would you not have to wash the milk off, given the hot summers we have here in Johannesburg, you would surely start smelling of sour milk. If indeed you needed to wash it off, what was the point. Certainly many famous icons from biblical times bathed in milk!

Josephine Dale Lace wasn't the only one that preferred to use zebras for their carriage as this zebra-drawn carriage driven by Lord Lionel Walter Rothschild shows. 1898 History, Zebras Carriage,

Jose Dale Lace would go shopping in Johannesburg in her Zebra drawn carriage, this was apparently inspired by Leopold de Rothschild with his zebra carriage, London. Jose was not to be out done by anyone! Photo credit Google archives

The once gorgeous caretaker's cottage and the stables would see Sir Herbert Baker using his famed signature Cape-Dutch style architecture, bearing in mind that José came from the Cape, perhaps this was of great significance for her and reminder of her once humble Karoo roots. Sadly as mentioned these were demolished to make way together with the rose garden those horrid looking student flats and the M1 highway below.

Sir Herbert Baker Cape Dutch Styled Gables at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The main gable also has its distinct Cape Dutch elements in its design as we can see from the many photos I took. Note that they are not in white like the ones in the Cape. Apparently the young couple first lived in the caretaker's cottage while their mansion was being built. This was to be architects Baker's first major work in Johannesburg and Northwards was his largest house. He was given full rein to apply his exceptional skills as well as to delve freely into his famous Arts and Crafts Movement, to pure opulence and he did not disappoint! Baker would introduce José to the very gifted interior decorator, Mr Clark. He was a master at bringing his clients own personality into the decor and from what we have seen and been told he was able to cleverly imprint our José's personality and triumphantly stamped her presence even as we walked through the halls and rooms today, you can feel her presence. The rooms and decor simply take your breath away in its lavishness and its extravagant opulence and art. The decor leans more to the Victorian side even though José termed it her "Hollywood Style". The home ended up not quiet being the traditional Baker design we have became accustomed to, however it was still a rather clever combination of the Arts and Crafts Movement (that Sir Baker loved so much) and English Vernacular architecture linked with the culture of the Cape and a then cosmopolitan Johannesburg.

What a splendid time capsule to the past this very unique and magnificent mansion is as it stands today, tall and proud for all to gasp and dream as we walk between its walls, perhaps with José following us as she smiles on us. It is rumored that José was in fierce competition with Florence Phillips, it was true that she was no match when it came to backgrounds with José being a platteland girl, but most certainly she was sure to trump Lady Florence with this grand home!

Looking in from the passage leading off the entrance hall to the right, the magnificent hall at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Of course once all their fortune had been spent, the famed Dale Laces were forced out of their wealthy circle and lived in poverty for the remainder of their lives. José's days of extravagance and riding her Zebra-drawn carriage into town for her famous shopping sprees, all gone but for the newspaper articles, journals, diaries and old photographs of a time that stood still.

Me on the famous haunted staircase - I tried to listen for Jose Dale laces dress swishing on the stairs - afraid I hear nothing but the upper staircase does creak at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

True to form José's insatiable eccentricity lived on and even on her deathbed she was beating her own drum. It was reported that she demanded to be cremated at night and her ashes be "thrown into the wind", her wish was granted and according to the locals, her ghost still lingers in the halls of Northwards and we were shown her huge larger than life portrait, which now hangs a few mm askew despite all attempts to remedy it. Hmmmm you be the judge... it looked quiet straight to me!

Portrait of José Dale Lace at Northwards

I was a bit skeptical but found out a story is told of her ghost lingering in the house. It is said that when a foot touches the second to last step on the staircase, the swish of her skirt can be heard. Ok? The ghost story is expanded to tell us that at one time TV crews accompanied by a clairvoyant and an infrared camera, nogal, actually came to talk her for some time. Apparently this conversation is reported to have gone something like this ... to José: 'do you know that you are dead?' To which she replied: 'Only now do I know that'. Apparently since this conversation took place José has become more settled and that her portrait no longer has to be continuously straightened in the hall. Even in death she lingers! Don't think I will visit in the night though, just in case! Haibo!

Albu family - 2nd owners of Northwards Mansion 1904
Adventurekim.com Kim Williams photos Urban Adventures

Northwards has new owners

Once the Dale Laces fall from grace had commenced, the beautiful mansion landed in the hands of yet another mining magnate, George Albu, later Sir George. In 1912 he bought Northwards for a mere 12 000 pounds remembering that the Dale Laces had paid a huge amount of 21 000 pounds for the house originally.

The house was only 7 years old at the time. George was apparently less impulsive than the average Randlord and was an astute businessman, a restorer and the founder of Gencor. It was also reported that he was the solid leader of a group of several mining magnates who no longer subscribed to Cecil John Rhodes's imperialistic ambitions and ideals, George and his followers supported the ZAR instead.

The beautiful and Baker signature black and white marble floors at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful lavender bushes contrasting against the yellow hedges and stonework of Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

When you arrive and wonder around Northwards, its size simply takes your breath away, once you start to walk around the gardens, you feel and can almost hear the voices and laughter of garden parties of so long ago, what they must of been like, walking around on the pathways and in the gardens in your long gown and umbrellas. How quiet it must of been at that time with no highway. Remembering that for José and the elite their lives revolved around tea parties and roses!

Back to George and his brother Leopold. They were German Jews and when they landed in Cape Town, George's humble beginnings where that of a sales assistant in the haberdashery counter in Stuttafords, this was a far cry from becoming the future owner of Northwards! George and his brother then moved up to Kimberley, where they made their fortune in diamonds. They then sold out to De Beers and moved to the Witwatersrand. George Albu took over Meyer and Charlton Mine ,creating a very successful business, this then lead to him and his brother establishing the General Mining and Finance Corporation in 1895.

Northwards Mansion Adventurekim.com

Northwards Mansion Jose's bedroom balcony Adventurekim.com

The General Mining and Finance Corporation then became Federale Volksbeleggings, then Gencor, then Billiton, then BHP Billiton, becoming one of the biggest mining houses in the world, with interests that spanned in Borneo, China, Australia, South America and South Africa. Incredible to think that back in 1912 their offices in Johannesburg were being run from inside a thatch and mud hut - a photograph of it hangs on the walls of Northwards, did not get a chance to photograph it.

Sundial at Northwards Adventurekim.com

Northwards gardens Adventurekim.com

We were told that the Trust was established to preserve our architectural heritage after many homes were torn down as they were deemed to promote English liberalism.

Very sad that so much history was destroyed and I am really glad that going forward more homes and buildings will be preserved for generations to come. This is living history that so many school children can come and see first hand and learn about our past.

The beautiful stink-wood trees and hydrangea garden at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Northwards Adventurekim.com

Dr Viljoen going back in history at Northwards 1904 Mansion
Adventurekim.com

George Albu - Mining Magnet - Randlord 2nd owner
of Northwards Mansion Photo Google

Back to George again! To restore the home after the fire he ended up choosing a lesser known Swiss architect, Theophile Schaerer. George had some very fixed ideas as to what he wanted, he and his wife Gertrude had a large family and as such he wanted to enlarge the home to suit their family needs. He had a large dining room and a double storey bedroom wing added, however thank goodness not all of the original Baker design was lost and he did make an effort to retain the large ballroom, the spacious entrance halls , the lobbies and living-rooms. He also thankfully retained the original lay-out and landscaping we still see today.

Northwards Steinway Grand Piano Adventurekim.com urban adventures

George did however, convert the Dale Laces billiard room into a more practical study for himself! George also made another addition, a beautiful grand piano in the hall. The grand is a Steinway, still in remarkable condition after being refurbished some time back at a huge cost I might add, oh and it has bronzed strings. That aside I was saddened to hear that 10 elephants a day were hunted in East Africa to supply Steinway with ivory for their piano keys. Not cool at all! Kind of put a damper on the beauty of the piano.

You can see the additions that George Albu made the upper balcony where the extra bedrooms and dinning area were added at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

George and his wife brought up their five children in the house. Apparently she too was a formidable woman and lady, in fact her children were in awe of their mother. Another two generations lived in the house. The Albu's also had a country estate in Rietfontein, now the suburb of Fourways, which ironically they could see from Northwards.

The new wing that George Albu added more bedrooms and the dinning area at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Sir George Albu's business, the mansion and his title was inherited by his son, Sir George junior. It would appear that the name George was a popular choice for the Albu's, as Sir George named their eldest son George as well as the youngest son George. It was interesting to note that the photographs of this time showed very little change to the house, however its noted that the rooms were less lavishly furnished. Amazingly George junior added a large number of wild animals for the amusement of his children, while he managed the estate. Sadly an end of an era and in 1951 (1954) after 39 years of the family living at Northwards, the Albu's sold the house.

The herb garden - Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Also note the rough plaster finish on the painted walls - this style was also a Baker signature style. Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

NOTE: photo on the left is the old original rock, quarried nearby and cut by hand to precision. the photo on the right shows the newer modern way of stone brickwork - pole apart in comparison. Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Niko

Old staff basement quarters

comparing old with modern electrical mains system

Old electrical box control system Northwards

The old original wine cellar Northwards

The old original electrical box system Northwards

The photographs above show the basement of the house where some of the staff resided. It must have been freezing during the winter. There was a cold room as well as a wine cellar now just used as storage.

We then moved around back to the front door of Northwards. We had completed the tour of the gardens and the basement. Stonemasons had been brought in to quarry and shape the individual stones to fit flush. One can see just how skilled they must of been to get their measurements so precise and uniform.

At the front door on the sides of the sandstone you can see these carvings. These are the stonemasons signature.
Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Just before we entered into the house Dr Viljoen went on to tell us that Northwards was sold on auction to the SABC - South African Broadcasting Corporation, for 80 000 pounds. By all accounts this was the disastrous beginning for Northwards as many items were lost and or stolen. It is outrageous to think that the S.A.B.C. were actually planning to demolish the house and build a broadcasting tower and as such did not look after it and during their stay at Northwards. Many of light fittings and paintings went missing, and one S.A.B.C. employee even went and bought the grand front gates which were thankfully brought back. They are reportedly very heavy and it required at least 10 men to lift one gate. I for one am very glad they were brought back. Thank you to a passionate group of people lead by the legend Flo Bird and The Parktown and Westcliff Heritage Trust - now the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation, who through their incredible efforts, Northwards was saved and people like you and I can now also enjoy walking through the house, reliving a bit off Ol' Jozi history. I suppose it was relative to that time as Northwards was not considered old or a heritage site and they acted within that framework.

The large brass heritage plaque on the right wall as you enter the mansion at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

In 1960 the SABC sold the property to the Transvaal Education Department, which erected several hostels in the gardens where the once beautiful rose gardens stood and as mentioned above they unfortunately still stand today in rather an ugly contrast to the beauty of Northwards. Long story short is was then used as a boarding house, then later as an office block all of which caused huge damage to the inside. Sadly during this time the stunning Cape Dutch styled stables were demolished, what chops. In came in the TPA who moved in once it was finally vacated by the SABC. Then it became the property of the JCE Trust.

The old original doorbell at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Today the the mansion is owned thankfully, by the Northwards Trust, and only educational or cultural institutions are permitted to rent offices or hold performances or functions in its rooms. So take a look at the Johannesburg heritage Foundation Face Book page for up coming events Johannesburg Heritage Foundation The The Dale Laces have not been completely forgotten either and are remembered today in Johannesburg with the Dale Lace Sport and Social Club in Westcliff, and Dale Lace Avenue in Randpark Ridge where they had their farm Boschkop, which I mentioned earlier still stands but is now a bit rundown.

The beautifully restored wooden doors leading off from the main passage from the entrance hall at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Thankfully Gencor was responsible for its recent restoration and here we are today walking its corridors and getting a splice of grand ol' years gone by! It was interesting to note that great care was taking during the restoration and research into the history and structure of the mansion was carefully taken into account and clever combination of both old and new modern technology was used to blend structures and design, bringing Northwards back to life and restoring the once proud ambiance it held so long ago. You will also note that smoke detectors are strategically placed as not to intrude too much in the aesthetics of the old mansion feel. There are a number of fire extinguishes and emergency signs which are all required by law when places are open to the public. In the kitchen you will note some of the modern touches with the old pieces intertwined rather cleverly. None of it detracts from the old historical period piece feel as you wonder around the hallways and into the grand rooms and lounges.

the huge kitchen at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

This modern restoration by Gencor was carried out influenced by a very scientific approach and my sons found it all rather fascinating especially my younger son, who is going into engineering. Dr Viljoen told us how many detailed geological methods were used to ensure that the replacement sandstone would be compatible with the original sandstone, that it would weather to the same colour. Amazing that slivers of one micron thick were cut from the original sandstone to create samples, which were then studied under a microscope. In fact a whole team of experts were brought in to make up various architects, quantity surveyors, engineers, geologist, cultural history researcher, interior decorator, building contractor, sub contractor and artisans. Mind-blowing actually, it must of been rather special to be part of this restoration team.

We were told that the restoration brief was actually prepared by Holm Jordaan Holm, who went to great pains to take into account its historical background, the personalities that influenced the original designs, as well as the environmental impact, and so the restorations of both the outer and inner building was completed to the same standard of precise workmanship that would have existed at the time of Sir George Albu senior. I was excited to hear that the rooms which had originally been designed by Baker and left untouched by Sir George were restored to the original Baker design. The rooms, like the drawing room and the main bedroom which had been designed by interior designer Mr Clark, were also restored to their original condition. The passages and the rooms are used mainly as offices, however they too were restored and decorated in the finishes and colours that were used by sir George Albu junior. Great pains were done to restore the house to is original glory. Walking around here today it is rather clear to me that they did a pretty remarkable job. It is breathtaking!

Even the original road and original gates were re-erected and restored making sure that the entrance was in line with the original plans. The driveway used to be gravel. The original gates to the house, where the M1 freeway now is, allowed the visitor to have full view of the house as you would enter the driveway, which was Bakers intention. It must have been a rather grand sight to drive along the driveway and get a view of the mansion. Today the driveway is tiled and to give the tiles that realistic authentic used and antique look, the tiles were rolled in a drum!

Throughout the massive restoration project whenever possible, original materials were used. In fact a carved, marble mantelpiece that was removed from Northwards in its earlier years, was carefully removed from its new home and then refitted back in its original position in the drawing room, what dedication. Wow!. What an incredible project! Dr Viljoen went on to tell us that a well known female artist had to painstakingly painted a replica of the missing marble bits to blend in and look like real marble.

The famous carved marble fireplace which was removed to someones private house, was found and brought back to Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; José Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Back to the tour, we were now in the entrance hall. It is actually quiet breathtaking with its white plaster ceiling surround by really beautiful lamps. The Norman arches are very dramatic and they look down on beautiful Italian marble floors.

Once inside the house I was transported into a time capsule of opulence, art decor and wonder far beyond my expectations. It is a reminder of a gloriously vibrant and extravagant time. In 1995 when some of the sandstone chimneys had to be restored, several quarries were searched to find sandstone of the same composition. Amazing to think than even when the roof needs repair, original clay tiles are taken from unseen sections of the roof, and replaced with new tiles.

We entered into a room via the first door on the right and what a treat it was. Painted in Wedgwood blue (the blue room) and its magnificent Wedgwood and marble fire place, what a sight to behold.

love this portrait of Jose with her wired haired Jack Russel
it looks so much like my own little Odie! Northwards 1904
Mansion Adventurekimc.om

Take a look at the rams heads on the light fittings and the beautiful intricate work around the fire place Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

From here we were lead through to the drawing room on the right. I was really eager to see the fire place first hand now that I knew its remarkable history. The drawing-room is surprisingly oval in shape with an unexpected domed ceiling with very delicate looking cornices, the magnificent marble fireplace and beautiful curved glass-fronted display cabinets and a bay window, that just begs you to sit inside for a wintry curl up with a good book and a cup of Earl grey tea! The elegant Victorian-styled wallpaper chosen by José was beautiful and what we see today is a replica which now decorates the walls.

The Drawing-room Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The Drawing-room at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Jose family Brink Portrait in The Drawing-room at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Then you find yourself inside the large wood-paneled, double-ceiling entertaining hall with its minstrel gallery, opposite it a romantic and delicately carved Juliet balcony, an incredible sandstone fireplace, beautiful teak ceiling, large opulent brass chandeliers, and an intimate dining area off the hall, with tall windows opening to the magnificent view northwards. I could get lost for hours in here, what an incredible bit of architecture that Baker created to marvel at. We are told that this was what Baker himself designed for Jose! Well I think many of us would agree, its magnificent. Wow.

The entertainment/ballroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The most striking feature inside this room is the large than life 3m high portrait of José, in her long pink gown with flounces off the sleeves, hanging to the floor and a pink satin sash tied at her waist. It is really beautiful and I could not help but stare up in wonder and in awe that this platteland meisie, who came from the Karoo, became to be Jose Dale Lace, socialite of Johannesburg and even though her rein was short, is was one for the history books. The room almost has an eerie feel and I am sure José eyes follow us around the room, her almost regal poise standing tall and proud over the home she loved so much.

The beautifully restored Steiner Grand piano in the entertainment/ballroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view of the magnificent staircase from inside the entertainment/ballroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

As we made our way upstairs I did listen out for the swoosh of Jose's skirt on the second step, nothing. I think she must be mad at me no the less upstairs just above the drawing room is her bedroom.

The staircase at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Looking into the entertainment/ballroom from the bottom of the staircase at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful detailed lamp hanging from the high volume ceiling in the staircase at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful staircase at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Looking down from the gallery into the entertainment/ballroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Looking down from the gallery into the entertainment/ballroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - across the way it the Juliet balcony Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Apparently Jose` would like to lay in her bed until noon, under black silk sheets nogal. Should she have visitors well not problem she would simply receive them in her bedroom. Hmmm. I must confess in all honesty it is a gorgeous room it has a stunning barrel-vaulted ceiling, a white marble fireplace, two doorways with cornices around them which lead into José's maid's room and dressing room. I just loved the two beautiful bay window seats with their Roman columns. The recessed windows are found on the east wall of the mansion.

Jose` famous bedroom at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Jose Dale laces bedroom - a room with a view at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Leading off the room is the upstairs balcony, with its magnificent views of the northern suburbs and to the north-west are views of my happy place, the Magaliesberg. Obviously the views of the northern suburbs was quiet different back then and is would have been largely views of bare veld, certainly not the built up suburb it is today. This balcony was enclosed during the SABC's unfortunate rein in the 1950s and was used a a typing pool. Now it has been restored to its original state for all to enjoy, José must be smiling!

Jose's balcony at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view of the Magaliesberg Mountains from Jose's balcony at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view from Jose's balcony at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view of the Westcliff Hotel from Jose's balcony at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Back inside José's old bedroom, now a boardroom we were told of how it seemed fitting considering José's notorious reputation with men that the busts of several prominent Gencor men be placed here.

Jose Dale Lace's room at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The old electoral map of the Clifton constituency dating back from John Dale Laces short political flutter. It was found during a cleanup in someone house (cannot remember who but I think it was one of the descendants or architect archives) it had been rolled up and bent, hence the different folds you can see. The most interesting thing for me was the name Clifton which is actually modern day Braamfontein. Also if you look closely you can see the names as well as the trades of the people living in the buildings.

The old electorial map balcony at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The old electorial map with the refection of the tour group at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Jose bedroom and dressing area at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #NikonBack out José's room and into another beautiful hallway with its gloriously rich carpets and wooden furniture. Note on the right side of the hall a white contraption - this is a platform lift to hoist wheelchairs to the upper floor.

We then went into the huge dinning room to have tea like the Lords and Ladies would have. Dr Viljoen's wife had baked a delicious fruit loaf and we all went back for seconds. We also had some yummy sandwiches with our tea as we all sat around the large wooded dinning table.

The stunning veranda off the main dinning-room at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The passages are filled with unexpected treasures tastefully displayed. Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Another set of stair leading up to staff quarters within the main house at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

We were then led into another bedroom on the upper-floor that was situated above the huge dinning-room all part of the additions that Sir George Albu made to accommodate his large family during the restoration following the fire in 1911. It had a magnification Delft fire place and balcony that over looked the hydrangea garden. We were told that many of the rooms as well as the staff rooms had, had Delft tiles, but they were gutted and removed without the understanding of their real value.

The beautiful Delft fire place in one of the bedrooms -Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The beautiful balcony in one of the children's bedrooms -Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view from the beautiful balcony in one of the children's bedrooms -Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

Further down to the west the gardens used to stretch down the hill with a swimming pool and rose garden. Only the swimming pool still exists and where the rose garden once flourished stand two 3 storied hostels. The south wing of the house once contained the servants'rooms with pressed steel ceilings, with their fireplaces fashioned with Delft tiles and black ironwork.

The beautiful balcony in one of the childrens bedrooms -Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

The view below from the balcony in one of the children's bedrooms - note the water spout -Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

We were then taken into the billiards-room. It too is really beautiful with its rich colours and gorgeous wooden billiard table. You could just imagine the men sitting around here talking and puffing on their cigars in one hand and brandy in the other. The legs of the billiard table are so heavy that special reinforced plate were made for them to rest on. they would more than likely have eventually fallen through the wooden floors!

The Billiards-room at Northwards 1904 PARKTOWN MANSION - Adventurekim.com; Adventurekim; Kim Williams Photos; Urban Adventures; Kim Williams Blog; Jose Dale Lace; John Dale Lace; George Albu; Herbert Baker Designs; Johannesburg Heritage Portal; #adventurekimcom #kimwilliams #Northwards #Mansion #1904 #JoseDaleLace #ParktownMansions #Heritage #MansionTours #SeeJozi #ExploreJozi #TourJozi #Randlord #Witwatersrand #Baker #Nikon

On the left is a family photo of Sir George (wearing the top hat) and Lady Albu (wearing the big fancy hat) and various other family members. The woman standing next to lady Albu is a staff member.

Well that concludes our tour of Northwards 1904 Mansion. I look forward to blogging about the other 27 interesting buildings and homes we have hidden in Johannesburg. My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed our day exploring history and walking the halls of Jose Dale Lace the girl from the platteland once grand home. This is well worth a visit and you will not be disappointed at all.