Eddy House celebrates 50th anniversary

Lush shrubs sway in the breeze as the elderly residents of Eddy House take a seat under the retirement village’s towering trees. It has been 50 years since the first residents moved into this expansive village, nestled on the outskirts of the Benoni CBD, away from the din of city life. Eddy House is one of 14 villages forming part of the Methodist Homes network, with its 101 units home to 103 senior citizens. Boasting independent living units ranging from bedsitters to three-bedroom flats, all overlooking pristine communal gardens, it is difficult to believe that one of the city’s hidden gems’ history is deeply entrenched in the aftermath of WWI. In 1924, orphaned and, in some cases, abused, the first group of girls of the Epworth Children’s Village stepped off their transport onto the dusty surface of Ampthill Avenue to take up residence at the village’s newly acquired home. This became the NPO’s second dedicated home for girls. At the time, it was George Lowe’s vision to break the mould of traditional orphanages, in turn creating homes for small groups of vulnerable children, offering a safe and homely environment. In May 1975, the sage antidotes of Eddy House’s first residents replaced the laughter of girls frolicking in the gardens. Now, five decades later, the home remains a comforting oasis for the city’s elderly, where they can celebrate their golden years in comfort.

This golden anniversary marks an extraordinary milestone, five decades of providing not only a place to live but a true sense of belonging, comfort and community. It is a moment to honour the past, celebrate the present and look to a bright and caring future. As we celebrate our home’s 50th anniversary, know that the spirit of this village, built on compassion, resilience and connection, May the next 50 years bring continued joy, health and heart to everyone who walks through these doors.

What Eddy House offers:
Services
• Independent living units
• 24-hour access controlled security
• Clinic with a registered nurse
• Freshly prepared and balanced daily lunches
• Library
• Chapel with weekly multi-denominational church services
• Bible study
• Self-service laundry
• Bargain shop
• Hair dresser
• Transport to medical facilities and shopping centres
Activities
• Bingo
• Darts
• Fitness classes
• Busy Hands knitting and crochet group
• Social gatherings

Residents have their say:

Corrie and Freddie Hauri have only been Eddy House residents for the past three months, but their journey with the village started in 2019. “My mom, Corrie van Heerden, bought the life rights of our unit when she was 90 years old,” said Corrie. “Despite being of a mature age and particularly set in her ways, she settled easily into village living and blossomed in her newfound community. “Following her passing, my husband and I decided to move into the unit. We are still young and fit, but the move has come with a great sense of comfort. “We are surrounded by neighbours who have become dear friends, and we move through the gardens knowing we are safe and well protected from the outside world. “This has become our haven.”

Ina Müller moved into her late mother-in-law’s sun-kissed unit in 2023. “Eddy House is the home I never thought I needed,” she said, taking refuge from the cold by sitting in the sunny spot of her lounge. “It might sound like a cliché, but within these walls, we are a little community held together by respect, care and love. “Moving into a retirement village is a daunting prospect, while downsizing may seem like an impossible task, but I have not once looked back. “I am happy, comfortable and at ease here. There is nothing more I need other than coming home to Eddy House.”

ADDRESS:

133 Ampthill Avenue, Benoni