PROPERTY HISTORY AND PROVENANCE
Backworth takes its name from the original Backworth in Northumberland in England, which was owned by Mrs Charles Leftwich’s family.
The ownership of the current Backworth goes from Colonel Fawcus, who bought the land in 1902 on his arrival in Natal. On his death he left the land to his sister Mrs Charles Leftwich, who subsequently left it to her son Peter Leftwich.
Peter Leftwich married Lorraine Ellis, daughter of the reputable Raymond Ellis, of the legendary Hartford Stud, fame, which later became Hartford House. Raymond Ellis has an illustrious link to the Thoroughbred Racing Industry in South Africa.
After being in the Leftwich family for over 80 years, in 1993 Backworth was bought from the Estate of Peter Leftwich by Keith Russon and Ian Todd.
Backworth is a landmark for many miles, standing at 1,100m above sea level. From its highest point, Backworth enjoys uninterrupted 360 degree panoramic views - from the Indian Ocean to the Drakensburg range, and the Umkomaas Valley. Backworth is in a private protected conservancy, and enjoys much natural game and birdlife.
Three generations of Leftwichs developed and established a property full of character and charm, which has been embraced by the current custodians. The old existing homestead of stone and brick under thatch was built in 1924, over the site of the original wood and iron home. The property enjoys a wonderful rambling garden, with a 1km driveway lined with azaleas, yellowwoods and hydrangeas, with many avenues of Plane and Liquid Amber trees across the property. There are many fine specimens of trees with stories of seeds brought back in the early 1900s - propagated and planted – namely the Cedars of Lebanon and Italian Oaks. The gardens have strategically placed fountains and ponds, with swimming pool and tennis court offering commanding views to add to the entertainment, amidst the vivid blaze from the azaleas and hydrangeas in their seasons.
Keith and Ian originally kept Backworth as a weekend retreat. In 1999 the decision was made to develop a Boutique Thoroughbred Stud, and the property was put under pasture and stables and facilities were developed to house their own private band of Broodmares and their progeny.
