Oudtshoorn: An Unexplored Gem of the Klein Karoo

Until approximately 1858, Oudtshoorn was a part of the District of George. It was declared a separate division. The local economy was primarily dependent on tobacco and ostrich farming, although large quantities of fruit and grain were also produced.

In 1847, the village of Oudtshoorn was laid out on the farm Hartebeestrivier, and in 1853, it was established as a kerkplaats (church farm). It was named for Baron Pieter van Rheede van Oudtshoorn, who arrived in South Africa in 1741 and was appointed Cape Governor in 1772. In 1773, he died at sea while returning to the Cape.

According to the 1865 census, Oudtshoorn had a population of 1,145. This number increased from 1,837 in 1875 to 4,386 in 1891. In 1904, the population was 8,849, and 3,865 were literate. Boer forces led by Commandant Gideon Scheepers were spotted near Oudtshoorn on August 25, 1901. However, the town was defended vigorously, so they moved on. (Elaborated by Franco Frescura.)

Greater Oudtshoorn is nestled at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains in the heart of South Africa's Little Karoo region in Western Cape. It is defined as a semiarid region with a distinct and delicate natural environment. It was once the native home of the Koi-San people, and the rock paintings on the cave walls send the message that survival in this region requires respect for the natural environment. It has numerous tourist attractions, such as the Swartberg Pass, a scenic drive. The Cango Caves, the Cango Wildlife Ranch, and various ostrich shows are popular tourist attractions in Cango. The C.P. Nel Museum, the ArtKaroo Art Gallery, the Mooi Art Gallery, and the Le Roux Townhouse are also located in Outdshoorn.

In this region, the ostrich farming industry is well-known. Visitors are able to view ostrich eggs, incubators, and chicks, in addition to adult ostriches. You can receive a "neck massage" from ostriches and cuddle with "Betsie," a friendly female ostrich on the premises. In addition to feeding the ostriches, visitors can learn about their history, industry, and farming.

Article Courtesy of www.sahistory.org.za/place/oudtshoorn-western-cape