ENTERTAINMENT NEWS - A newly published memoir with strong ties to George is giving readers a glimpse into a family’s remarkable journey from Scotland to Hong Kong and eventually to George.
Author Rod Watson recently shared details of his book, A woman, a wok, a war, which tells the true story of his parents’ lives across three continents and several defining periods of the 20th century.
While much of the book focuses on the family’s experiences in Scotland, Hong Kong before and after World War II, and later South Africa, Watson says the final chapters will be of particular interest to George residents.
The story includes memories of the family’s years at 10 Caledon Street, where Watson’s father, Hugh Watson, operated a veterinary practice during the 1960s. The large colonial-style house, now known as Oude Berg Guest House, served as both the family home and veterinary consulting rooms.
According to Watson, his father initially faced challenges as a Scottish veterinarian working among predominantly Afrikaans-speaking farmers, but eventually earned their trust and built a successful practice.
The family settled in George after leaving post-war Hong Kong. Watson’s mother, Patricia Watson, was born in East London, South Africa, and the couple were attracted to George’s Mediterranean climate when a veterinary practice became available for purchase.
The book also recounts a tragic chapter in the family’s history. Hugh Watson, who was born in July 1903, died in a fire at the Caledon Street property in 1960 at the age of 57. The incident was reported by the George & Knysna Herald at the time.
Rod Watson
Described as a memoir and family history, the book explores themes of migration, war, resilience and adaptation, while providing insight into life in Hong Kong and South Africa during significant historical periods.
Watson said that although only the final chapters focus specifically on George, several sections deal with South African experiences and the family’s life in the country.
The book is available exclusively through Amazon.
‘We bring you the latest Garden Route, Hessequa, Karoo news’
