The Slave Who Became A Grande Dame - Durbanville Wine Estate Honours Anna De Koning

Durbanville winery Groot Phesantekraa l is commemorating one of the most intriguing, Cinderella-like personalities in South African history, Anna de Koning.

The famous high-society beauty, who was born to a slave, rose to Grande dame status in late 17th and early 18th Cape society and eventually became the owner of Groot Phesantekraal that dates its origins to 1698, making it one of the Capes oldest farms.

The Cape Town Heritage Foundation has officially unveiled a Blue Plaque to pay tribute to Anna de Koning. Blue Plaques are internationally recognised historical markers erected to highlight the relationship between specific locations and people or events of historical importance.

Fourth-generation owner Andr Brink says The farm enjoys an unusually long heritage. Whereas Durbanville as a town celebrates its 200th anniversary this year, our roots go back almost 330 years.

Brink explains that Anna de Koning inherited the property in 1724 on the death of her husband, Olaf Bergh, along with several other farms, making her one of the wealthiest people of her day.