Towns and suburbs

Van Rhynsdorp

Van Rhynsdorp is a historic town in the Western Cape, known for its early mission history, Khoi and San heritage, mountain passes, and world-famous indigenous plant nurseries.

History of Van Rhynsdorp

Early European Exploration

The area around Van Rhynsdorp was first explored by Europeans in 1661 under the leadership of Pieter van Meerhoff. It was originally known as Trutro (or Troe-Troe). The Troe-Troe Mission dates back to 1751, when the Trutro Homestead was completed — a building that still stands today.

In 1881, the town’s name was changed to Van Rhynsdorp in honour of Reverend Van Rhijn, who played an important role in the church and local community.

Indigenous History

Long before European settlement, the region was home to Khoe pastoralists and San hunter-gatherers. The San lived in the surrounding mountains, and examples of their rock art can still be found in the area today. The Khoe and San communities form part of the earliest known cultural groups in southern Africa.

Like many areas in South Africa, colonial expansion and later apartheid policies led to the displacement of indigenous communities from their land. These historical disruptions had long-term social and economic impacts that are still felt in the region today.

 

The license plate prefix for Van Rhynsdorp is CCP, and the postcode is 8170

Things to do and see in Van Rhynsdorp

  • The Gifberg pass
  • Tierberg pass
  • . Visit the world-famous nurseries
  • Van Rhyn Museum and Old Jail
  • Discover buildings dating back as far as the 1700s.
  • War graves.

 

WEATHER IN VAN RHYNSDORP TODAY

browse businesses and things to see in van rhynsdorp

 

Useful Numbers

  • Police: 027 219 8031
  • Municipality; 027 219 1030
  • Traffic department:027 201 3432
  • Fire
  • Water: 027 201 3404/3401
  • Electricity:082 323 7463
  • Ambulance:10177
  • Post office; 027 219 1460
  • Library:0272013466
  • Closest hospital; 027 213 2036 clinic 027 219 1733
  • Pharmacy;027 219 2969
  • SPCA: Matzikama Dierebeskerming 027 213 4182
  • Schools:
  • Vanrhynsdorp high 027 219 1010
  • Maskam primary 027 219 1440
  • Museums;
  • The old jail 027 219 1048
  • Latsky radio museum 4 church st 027 219 1032
  • Info centre; 027 201 3371
  • Tourism; 027 201 3371

Other towns in the Matzikama district include Bitterfontein; Doringbaai; Ebenhaeser; Klawer; Lutzville and Koekenaap; Strandfontein; and Vredendal

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    Learn more about the project HERE

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