George 200 Years Old

Published: 07/14/2010 by Louis van Zyl

The town of George was established as a result of the growing demand for timber and the wood used in building, transport and furniture. In 1776 the Dutch East India Company established an outpost for the provision of timber; its location is thought to be near the western end of York Street. The Timber Post had its own Poshouer (manager), some 12 woodcutters, a blacksmith, wagon maker and 200 oxen plus families. After 1795 and the British occupation of the Cape, a caretaker of the forests in the area was appointed. After the second British occupation in 1806, it was decided that the Swellendam magistracy was too large, so that of George Town was carved out of it. In 1811 Van Kervel was appointed as Landrost (magistrate) and the town was proclaimed by the Earl of Caledon, governor of the Cape Colony on St George's Day, 23 April 1811, and named after the reigning British monarch, King George III. George gained municipal status in 1837.

With the dawning of the 200 year festival starting in 2011, we take a look at some of the things that make George unique and also establishes itself as the business hub of the Garden Route.

The vehicle registration number of George, CAW, has been given new meaning by the locals who call it Cold And Wet, due to the high rainfall received by this region thanks to the close proximity to the ocean and the encapsulating mountain range, the Outeniqua Mountains.

The Outeniqua Mountain peaks where recently covered in snow and although very chilly, certainly was a sight to behold. Snow coverage on the mountains are not unusual, but it does not happen often. See the gallery images for some of the recent July 2010 snow coverage.

George is the 6th oldest town in South Africa and recently hosted the Japanese Soccer Team, whom based themselves in this beautiful town for the 2010 Fifa World Cupâ„¢. Embraced by the local community during training sessions and their township visit with Executive Mayor Mercia Draghoender, the visit of the Japanese Soccer Team will not be soon forgotten.

Being almost 200 years old, George does have many historic sites to visit, being within 10 km (6 miles) from the coast and pristine beaches, makes George the perfect holiday getaway.