Fred planted magic in Margate
Fred devoted much time and effort to planting these seeds on the banks of Margate.
Have you ever wondered where Margate’s iconic palm trees came from?
Fred van Dongen (1935 – 2015) was part of one the first families to move to the South Coast and influence tourism here.
A lifeguard, surfer, avid gardener, artist, top international chef and hotelier of the Hotel la Crete, he loved the coast and considered it to be one of the most beautiful locations in the world.
Fred’s son Colin Van Dongen, who wrote this wonderful piece, said his father thought it was a great idea on his honeymoon after spending three months in Tofo, Mozambique to fill his old Peugeot car with as many coconut palm seeds as possible – much to his wife, Joan’s horror.
Fred devoted much time and effort to planting these seeds on the banks of Margate (where you stand today), and around Uvongo.
His vision and foresight still stands graciously towering here today, in memory of this generous and kind soul who loved nothing more than to bless others, share a smile and make them feel special.
Many of the stories of his life are still legend on this coast.
HAVE YOUR SAY
Like the South Coast Herald’s Facebook page, follow us on Twitter and Instagram
