Van Reenen
This village is situated on the border of Natal and the Free State, at the top of Van Reenen’s Pass. It was named after Frans van Reenen, owner of the farm Sandspruit at the foot of the mountain - Drakensberge. He was the planner of the route of the pass. The first road was built in 1856. The later road was constructed in 1924. In 1891 the railway line between Natal and the Orange Free State was opened and the village came to be.
The Llandaff Oratory
The Llandaff Oratory – this Roman Catholic church, the only one in the world which is privately owned. It is claimed to be smallest church in the world. It was built by Maynard Matthew as a memorial to his son Llandaff, who lost his life tragically in an accident down a coal mine on 19th March 1925. He wished to place a plaque in a Catholic church but was denied him, hence building this church himself.
Denominational Church 1926
Denominational Church 1926 – This church building was enlarged and now serve as a Tearoom and curio shop.
Green Lantern Inn
Green Lantern Inn – The land was purchased in 1891, the title deed signed on behalf of Queen Victoria. The hotel was built by Charles Cusworth in 1892, known as the Coach Inn. During the 2nd ABW the hotel was commandeered by the British, Manchester Regiment. In 1948 the new owners renamed the hotel The Green Lantern Inn after the big lantern that hang above the hotel at the top of the pass to signal to early travellers on wagons that they have reached the summit guiding them through the mist.
Railway Station Building
This building was the second railway station. Now dilapidated. Also served as the post office.
Bompas Village Trading Store
Bompas Village Trading Store – This trading store was established by the Indian family Patel’s from the Ladysmith district in 19….
AF Seedat General Dealer Store
The Gable for this building dated 1924 and inscribed Medina Mahal
Bell
Bell – donated by Mr & Mrs HB Heymans in 1926 at the cost of 10 pounds.
