Generation 2 - Frank Potts II

Frank Potts II was the sixth child of Frank I and his wife Augusta, he was born at home at ‘Bleasdale’ on July 31 1859.

The first vines were planted at Bleasdale when he was seven years of age and undoubtedly much of Frank II spare time was spent helping clear land and plant and tend the vines. Upon Frank I death in 1980 Frank II took over the running of Bleasdale and in 1892 he employed his brothers Fred and Henry (Fiddle) to build a new red gum wine press that is still in place at Bleasdale today. This unique, huge red gum lever press is made from solid, hand-hewn timbers and is a must see for those passing through the region.

In 1900 Frank II purchased 90 acres of Bremer flood plain, this acquisition included the Bridge Hotel and much of this land he planted to vines further increasing the Bleasdale vineyard holdings. Frank Potts II had 11 children, 10 of which reached maturity and one being Henry ‘Fiddle’ Potts.