Nestled in the heart of the Karoo, Matjiesfontein has always been a place where history and heritage meet the endless beauty of the South African landscape. Now, this beloved village is adding a new chapter to its story — one that looks firmly toward the future.
Milestone birthday in Matjiesfontein
Posted on Mon March 2, 2026.
On 20th January, Ben Rawdon celebrated a milestone birthday of 90 years choosing Matjiesfontein for the celebrations. Attended by family and friends, this special occasion ensured many glasses were raised in Ben’s honour.It was also a time to acknowledge and celebrate Annette and Ben’s 60th wedding anniversary – an amazing milestone achieved! The hotel has been throwing legendary celebrations for over 125 years now, and this was no exception with staff joining in to ensure much singing, dancing and toasting to the retired Professor.
A special treat was delivered by son-in-law Steve who led the singing on guitar, and adapted the well known Eagles song “Hotel California” in Ben’s honour to produce “Hotel Matjiesfontein”
Bengy is the youngest brother of David, the latter day Laird of Matjiesfontein whose vision of preserving the iconic Lord Milner Hotel and other historic buildings at Matjiesfontein began in the late 1960s. To his testament, the whole Village originally founded by Scottish railwayman James Logan in the early 1880s, achieved National Heritage status securing it’s preservation for generations to come.
Bengy did not follow his two older brothers, David and Graham, into hospitality, but instead became a focused academic, heading the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology at UCTs Medical School, alongside
leading cutting edge research in the field of human development (embryology).
That said, Ben remains pivotally involved in Matjiesfontein. He has a passion for history and antiques, and as such the continued preservation and historical integrity of the village. His input is vital, bringing experience and wisdom to help guide projects and activities, helping us deliver a vision we have to provide a unique and authentic experience for visitors of all ages and backgrounds. A vision of encouraging learning, letting history excite visitors, and securing the timeless traditions of Matjiesfontein for future generations to enjoy.
Tom Rawdon - Feb 2026
Further Reading
A Step Toward a Greener Future
Thu October 16, 2025
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Under the Karoo Stars: A Journey with the Shepherds Behind Our Lamb
Tue July 8, 2025
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At The Lord Milner Hotel in Matjiesfontein, our team recently embarked on a 125 km transhumance trek with a local Karoo sheep farming family, gaining deep insight into the heritage behind our beloved Karoo lamb. This time-honoured journey through the rugged landscape, marked by resilience, tradition, and connection to the land, revealed the true soul of the Karoo and the people who sustain it. Now, every dish of Karoo lamb we serve...
Olive Schreiner
Wed October 16, 2024
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Olive Schreiner (1855–1920) is remembered as one of South Africa’s most influential literary figures and a pioneering feminist. Her works and activism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries left a lasting impact on literature, politics, and social reform in her home country and beyond.
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