Stepping back in time: Exploring Whaleback Cottage in Ramsgate
From creaking wooden floors to Alan Paton’s pith helmet – a visit to Whaleback Cottage becomes a surreal journey into history, art and literature for Jane Franz and her son Marc.
Jane Franz and her son Marc recently enjoyed a memorable visit to the iconic Whaleback Cottage in Ramsgate – a place steeped in history and literary significance.
Built in 1916 by Italian prisoners of war, the charming stone cottage is best known as the place where Alan Paton penned his celebrated novel Cry, the Beloved Country.
For Jane, the experience was nothing short of surreal.
Walking through the rooms, she was struck by the richly coloured, creaking wooden floors and the sense of stepping back in time. The cottage is filled with carefully preserved artefacts and antique furniture, each piece echoing stories from a bygone era.
Adding a unique artistic touch to the historic space is a striking whale sculpture crafted from driftwood by local artist Gérard de Jong. The piece hangs proudly in the front room above a window, blending natural beauty with creative expression.
One of the most memorable moments came as Jane entered the cottage and noticed a hat rack displaying Paton’s pith helmet. Curious, she tried it on – and to her delight, it fit perfectly.
The visit left both Jane and Marc with a deep appreciation for the cottage’s heritage and atmosphere. It was, she described, a truly special experience – one that brought history, art and literature vividly to life.
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