The ‘Lady Margaret Herschel Cocktail Club’ is a social and networking circle which was launched in 2001 and welcomes Herschel alumnae, guests, families and friends. ‘Lady Margaret Herschel’ meets a number of times a year at venues such as The Cellars-Hohenhort Hotel, Mount Nelson and The Vineyard. Everyone enjoys catching up with old friends and making new ones. If you would like to receive an email advising you of the next event, please send your email address to Daphne Beames at gilespie@iafrica.com. To keep in touch please follow our Facebook Page.
This club is named after Lady Margaret Brodie Herschel (Stewart) who visited the Cape between 1834 and 1838 with her famous astronomer husband, Sir John Herschel. She lived at Feldhausen Estate and frequently visited Herschel. She had 12 children – three of whom were born in Cape Town during their four-year visit. She and her husband participated in stargazing, bird watching, mountain walks, photography, botanical collecting and painting. During their forty-two years of marriage, they shared many intellectual and artistic interests.
Despite having no previous experience in botanical drawing, Margaret completed one hundred and twenty paintings of rare botanical specimens and displayed a mastery of watercolour painting, earning recognition from renowned botanists. Her interests in science and art contributed to an extraordinary legacy.
Margaret Brodie is honoured by the alumna of Herschel Girls School and it is hoped that her educated and enquiring mind will inspire future generations of young women.