Growing up among cars

Just outside Cape Town, we visit a man who not only has an impressive classic-car collection, but has also furnished the building with all things relevant to his family's history, the motoring world and historical objects

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Family, cars, history, memories and custodianship. These were just a few of the thoughts that went through my mind as I stepped into Albert Bester's barn. A common theme runs through the artefacts in the room. Apart from his ensemble of classics, Albert's passion for history and tradition is evident. And, like his cars, each artefact is kept safe and in meticulous condition so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.

Albert grew up among cars, with a father who, many decades ago, enjoyed the journey of finding an old car, repairing it and owning it. I took a stroll through the vehicles and walked along the walls. There are newspaper articles about the work his father did for the local town, keepsakes of the family and framed photos of several cars they have previously owned. There is a strong sense of family history and Albert was quick to point out the pictures with anecdotes or special memories attached to them. Currently, more drawings and photos depicting various memories and events in the motoring world are being put up on the walls.

"My late father grew up in Hopefield and was one of six children. A Duesenberg drove through the town one day. My father would constantly ask his father if they could go to Langebaan to look at the car, as it was there for a period of time. Eventually, they went to investigate and I think that set the foundation for my father’s love of cars.