George Erispe was born in Kalkbay and he was one of nine siblings. It was during his school career that George developed a passion for gardening, and was always ready to assist the nuns in the garden. His mother hoped he would become a fisherman as many men were doing during this period. However, George had his own plans and became a postman in Simon’s Town.

 

George and his family stayed in Waterfall road. It is here that George developed a deep love for his vibrant community and cultivated his passion for gardening. George became well known for his prize-winning Dahlias and Roses. He took immense pride in his garden meticulously attending to his plants, always with his favourite drink, a Lieberstein on hand,

 

Every morning, George’s wife,  would pick a few dahlias and sell them to the community. The Mayors office were regular customers of George’s, often ordering bunches for their functions.

 

In 1969 George Erispe and family, were forcibly removed from Simon’s Town. The Erispe’s were moved to Heathfield, The change was a difficult one to accept. George was forced to leave most of his garden behind.  Renowned ballet dancer, Chirstopher Kindo, is quoted in Die Burger:

“Every house was eventually empty…I was standing on the stoep and I saw Mr Erispe, who had the most beautiful garden in Simon’s Town. I remember him sitting on the back of the van, with all his furniture and his dog, and all his plants around him. He could only take a small garden with him. That is the last image I have of Simonstown. ”

George found the soil to be very different cultivate compared to that of the soil in Simonstown. However, through perseverance he was able to restart his garden again but never sold flowers again.

Compiled by The Erispe Family

Edited by Simon's Town Museum