Estate History
Early Development and Ownership
Beaulieu’s development took place in the early 1980s under the Kyalami Syndicate led by Mr. Verster. The land was previously owned by Mr. Papenfus, who acquired it before the Second World War. Mr. Papenfus, a prosperous cattle farmer, resided in a Cape Dutch house atop Krause Street, allowing him a vantage point to oversee his lands and observe the workers. Interestingly, there were rumors of the house being haunted.
Farm Construction and Unique Living Arrangements
During the construction of houses on the farm, Mr. Papenfus collected old cans and bottles from the Kyalami racetrack. His girlfriend, Gayle, lived in a stone house on the property, while he and his wife resided in the nearby old farmhouse. Remarkably, even after a tree fell through their home, Mr. Papenfus chose not to repair it, living with the tree spanning across the house.
Features of the Original Farm
The farm also featured an old silo for storing feed and a sizable flock of peacocks that kept cobras in check. The Beaulieu dam existed before development, teeming with migrating and local birds, nourished by surrounding streams and seasonal runoff. Additionally, the enchanting gum forest within the “fairy forest” was already part of the original farm.
Land Sales and Historical Context
Over the years, Mr. Papenfus sold portions of the farm, including the golf course, which the Jewish community purchased to establish a Country Club due to restrictions from accessing general clubs and facilities during that era in South Africa. These limitations were embedded in the title deeds.
Formation of the Kyalami Syndicate
Following Mr. Papenfus’ passing, Mr. Verster, approached by the Papenfus estate, formed the Kyalami Syndicate with individuals like Mr. Skeepers, Mr. Van Zuydam, and Martin Pols, known as the original comic book star “Martin Condor.” The inheritors of Mr. Papenfus’ estate were scattered across the globe, making it challenging for executors to locate his scattered wealth hidden in various bank accounts under fictitious names due to his eccentric nature.
Official Launch of Beaulieu
When Beaulieu was officially launched, it received a grand reception, complete with a photo album documenting the occasion. The organizers arranged tours around the estate in horse-drawn carts in collaboration with the old horse and cart society, and they also hosted a horse show.
Property Pricing and Sales Strategy
Initially, the price for a hectare property was set at R75,000, but after six months, it was reduced to R65,000. The sales were staggered, and by the third phase, many individuals who had purchased properties in the first phase also invested in the third phase due to the increasing values.
Vision for Beaulieu
Beaulieu was envisioned as a country estate supporting equestrians in the area, offering one-hectare portions with bridle paths. The area already had established facilities like KEP and the Lipizzaner facility. The vision strictly allowed one house per hectare, along with ancillary outbuildings, maintaining low densities.
Name and Pronunciation
The name “Beaulieu,” meaning “beautiful place,” was inspired by the Beaulieu region in France, and it follows the French pronunciation.
Long-standing Resident: Sue Delport
Sue Delport, with a long association with Beaulieu, purchased an undeveloped stand (313) in 1989, making her one of the longest-standing residents. Before that, she resided on the undeveloped Beaulieu since the mid-1980s when it was known as Jongintaba Stables. She enjoyed the picturesque riding country and access to facilities like KEP. Despite challenges during the development phase, Sue has cherished her time in Beaulieu, appreciating its beauty and the memories it holds.