Block House 2

Could these silent stones whisper tales of wartime? Here at Block House 2, time seems to stand still. Block House 2 near Wolseley is a relic of the Anglo-Boer War, a conflict that scarred the South African landscape and left behind these sturdy sentinels. Built between 1900 and 1901, Block House 2, along with its twin, stands as a testament to a bygone era. These blockhouses were strategically positioned to guard the vital railway bridges from Boer attacks. Imagine, twenty British soldiers crammed within these thick stone walls. The ground floor, a damp and dimly lit space, housed their supplies. A retractable rope ladder led to the middle floor, their living quarters. And above that, the observation deck, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside and the vulnerable railway bridge. Block House 2, remarkably well-preserved due to its location on private land within the Dicey family farm, offers a glimpse into this historical period. Unlike many others that were dismantled for building materials or fell into disrepair, Block House 2 remains largely intact. The Dicey family, recognizing its historical significance, has taken great care to preserve this piece of history. They even added an external staircase, making it easier for visitors to experience what it was like to be a soldier stationed here. Today, you can stand within Block House 2, peer through the narrow shooting ports, and almost hear the echoes of the past. Imagine the tension, the long hours of watchfulness, the ever-present threat of attack. Block House 2 is a stark reminder of a turbulent time in South African history, a time when these silent stones bore witness to the struggles of a nation at war.