Did you know? The inspiring journey of Maai Ansiela, from slavery to landowner in Hout Bay

When you drive past Kronendal, you are looking at one of the most recognisable pieces of Hout Bay’s history.

Hidden in the history is the story of a woman whose journey took her from slavery to becoming a landowner in Hout Bay.

Her name was Angela van Bengalen, better known as Maai Ansiela.

From slavery to property owner

According to South African History Online and Wikipedia, Maai Ansiela was born into slavery in the Dutch East Indies and was brought to the Cape.

After gaining her freedom, however, her story took a significant turn.

She became a successful businesswoman and property owner - and historical records identify her as one of the earliest women at the Cape to receive land in her own name.

Among the properties was Kronendal in Hout Bay.

A woman who had been born into slavery went on to own land at a time when opportunities for women - and particularly formerly enslaved people - were severely restricted.

Hout Bay's history is more complicated than we think

Today, Kronendal is often viewed as a beautiful reminder of Hout Bay's early colonial history.

But its story also connects the valley to a story of slavery, freedom, wealth, and land ownership at the Cape.

Next time you pass Kronendal, remember that there is far more to this historic property than its beautiful buildings and old trees.

The story of Maai Ansiela and how she, a slave, went on to become one of the earliest property owners in Hout Bay.

Did you know?