Sandstone Estates, Railway museum and agricultural estate near Ficksburg, South Africa
Sandstone Estates is a railway museum and working farm near Ficksburg along the Lesotho border. The property spans approximately 7,000 hectares where wheat, soya beans, maize, and sunflowers are grown using organic methods, while over 20 operational narrow gauge locomotives and more than 300 restored tractors are preserved on the grounds.
The farm was established in the 1830s by the Wille family, German missionaries who transformed the land into an agricultural operation. Over generations, the property evolved into a major preservation center for historic railways and farm machinery.
The locomotives and tractors on display reflect how transportation and farming shaped South African development over time. Visitors can observe these machines in their working context across the working estate.
The annual Stars of Sandstone event runs between March and May, showcasing vintage machinery and farm demonstrations. Plan to spend several hours walking the extensive grounds, and wear comfortable footwear since the property covers large distances.
The collection includes two Royal Train coaches from 1947 that are part of South African railway history. Additionally, indigenous cattle breed are used on the property for traditional haulage tasks, reflecting the farm's historical working methods.
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