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{{other uses|Victoria West (disambiguation)}}
{{Other uses|Victoria West (disambiguation)}}
{{Infobox South African town
{{Infobox settlement
| name = Victoria West
| name = Victoria West
| native_name = Victoria-Wes
| native_name = Victoria-Wes
| other_name =
| other_name = Wiektorieha-Wes
| image_skyline = Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West.JPG
| image_skyline = Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West.JPG
| image_caption = Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West
| image_caption = Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West
| image_seal = File:Coat of Arms of Victoria West.png
| image_seal = File:Coat of Arms of Victoria West.png
| pushpin_map = South Africa Northern Cape#South Africa
| coordinates = {{coord|31|24|11|S|23|07|14|E|region:ZA|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|31|24|11|S|23|07|14|E|region:ZA|display=inline,title}}
| province = Northern Cape
| district = Pixley ka Seme
| subdivision_type = Country
| municipality = Ubuntu
| subdivision_name = [[South Africa]]
| subdivision_type1 = Province
| established_date = 1844<ref name=established>{{cite web|title=Chronological order of town establishment in South Africa based on Floyd (1960:20-26)|url=http://upetd.up.ac.za/thesis/available/etd-07212011-123414/unrestricted/05back.pdf|pages=xlv-lii}}</ref>
| government_type = <!-- Ward 00 -->
| subdivision_name1 = [[Northern Cape]]
| leader_party =
| subdivision_type2 = District
| subdivision_name2 = [[Pixley ka Seme District Municipality|Pixley ka Seme]]
| leader_title = Councillor
| leader_name =
| subdivision_type3 = Municipality
| elevation_m =
| subdivision_name3 = [[Ubuntu Local Municipality|Ubuntu]]
| postal_code =
| subdivision_type4 = Main Place
| area_code = 053
| established_title = Established
| established_date = 1844<ref name=established>{{cite thesis |last=Robson |first=Linda Gillian |title=The Royal Engineers and settlement planning in the Cape Colony 1806–1872: Approach, methodology and impact |date=2011 |type=PhD thesis |publisher=University of Pretoria |chapter=Annexure A |chapter-url=https://repository.up.ac.za/bitstream/handle/2263/26503/05back.pdf?sequence=6&isAllowed=y#page=31 |url=https://repository.up.ac.za/handle/2263/26503 |hdl=2263/26503 |pages=xlv–lii}}</ref>
| censuscode = 369005
| website =
| leader_title = Councillor
| area_footnotes = <ref name="census2011">{{cite web |url=http://census2011.adrianfrith.com/place/369005 |title = Main Place Victoria West |work=Census 2011}}</ref>
| footnotes =
| area_total_km2 = 78.95
| population_footnotes = <ref name="census2011" />
| population_total = 8254
| population_as_of = 2011
| population_density_km2 = auto
<!-- demographics (section 1) -->| demographics_type1 = Racial makeup (2011)
| demographics1_footnotes = <ref name="census2011" />
| demographics1_title1 = [[Bantu peoples of South Africa|Black African]]
| demographics1_info1 = 23.7%
| demographics1_title2 = [[Coloureds|Coloured]]
| demographics1_info2 = 69.3%
| demographics1_title3 = [[Indian South African|Indian]]/[[Asian South African|Asian]]
| demographics1_info3 = 0.4%
| demographics1_title4 = [[White South African|White]]
| demographics1_info4 = 5.6%
| demographics1_title5 = Other
| demographics1_info5 = 0.9%
<!-- demographics (section 2) -->| demographics_type2 = [[First language]]s (2011)
| demographics2_footnotes = <ref name="census2011" />
| demographics2_title1 = [[Afrikaans]]
| demographics2_info1 = 82.1%
| demographics2_title2 = [[Xhosa language|Xhosa]]
| demographics2_info2 = 13.8%
| demographics2_title3 = [[South African English|English]]
| demographics2_info3 = 1.1%
| demographics2_title4 =
| demographics2_info4 =
| demographics2_title5 = Other
| demographics2_info5 = 3.0%
<!-- blank fields (section 2) -->
<!-- Other information -->| timezone1 = [[South African Standard Time|SAST]]
| utc_offset1 = +2
| postal_code_type = [[List of postal codes in South Africa|Postal code]] (street)
| postal_code = 7070
| postal2_code_type = [[Post-office box|PO box]]
| postal2_code = 7070
| area_code_type = [[Telephone numbers in South Africa|Area code]]
| area_code = 091
| official_name =
}}
}}

'''Victoria West''' is a town in the central [[Karoo]] region of South Africa's [[Northern Cape]] province.
'''Victoria West''' is a town in the central [[Karoo]] region of South Africa's [[Northern Cape]] province. It is situated on the main [[N12 road (South Africa)|N12]] route, at an elevation of {{convert|1300|m}}. It is the seat of the [[Ubuntu Local Municipality]] within the [[Pixley ka Seme District Municipality]].<ref>{{Citation| title = Victoria West, Heart of the Karoo| url=http://www.victoriawest.co.za/ | access-date = 2009-02-02 }}</ref>


==History==
==History==


The town was laid out on the bank of the Brakrivier watercourse in 1843,<ref>{{Citation| last = | first = | title = Victoria West history| url=http://www.victoriawest.co.za/historyMain.htm | accessdate = 2009-02-02 }}</ref> when the [[Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa|Dutch Reformed Church]] bought the farm Zeekoegat from from the estate of Mr J.H. Classens. It was named Victoria in 1844, after [[Queen Victoria]], though amended to Victoria West in 1855 to distinguish it from an [[Eastern Cape]] district.<ref name="PER">{{cite book|last = Raper|first = P.E.|coauthors =|title = South African Place Names|publisher = Jonathan Ball, Jhb & Cape Town|year = 2004|page = 211|isbn = 1-86842-190-2}}</ref>. In 1859, did the town acquire municipal status.
The town was laid out on the bank of the Brakrivier watercourse in 1843,<ref>{{Citation| title = Victoria West history| url=http://www.victoriawest.co.za/historyMain.htm | access-date = 2009-02-02 }}</ref> when the [[Dutch Reformed Church in South Africa|Dutch Reformed Church]] bought the farm Zeekoegat from the estate of J.H. Classens. It was named Victoria in 1844, after [[Queen Victoria]], though amended to Victoria West in 1855 to distinguish it from an [[Eastern Cape]] district.<ref name="PER">{{cite book|last = Raper|first = P.E.|title = South African Place Names|publisher = Jonathan Ball, Jhb & Cape Town|year = 2004|page = 211|isbn = 1-86842-190-2}}</ref> In 1859 the town acquired municipal status.


'''[[Dutch Reformed Church]]'''
===Dutch Reformed Church===
The first services of the [[Dutch Reformed Church]] were led by Rev. Colin Fraser of Beaufort West in the “Kerkhuis” on the farm Kapoksfontein. The congregation in Victoria West separated from that in [[Beaufort West]] during October 1843 when the first local preacher, Rev. W.E. Krige was ordained. For various practical reasons, they decided not to establish the town on the farm Kapoksfontein but rather Zeekoegat. Church services were temporarily held in a house on Zeekoegat. There was a need for a comfortable church building and fund raising was started.<ref name=Signage/>


* 10 March 1850 - Consecration of the unfinished church took place.
The Word, were originally brought to Victoria West by Rev. Colin Fraser of Beaufort West in the “Kerkhuis” on the farm Kapoksfontein. The Church in Victoria West separated from that in [[Beaufort West]] during October 1843 when the first preacher, Rev. W.E. Krige was ordained. For various practical reasons, they decided not to establish the town on the farm Kapoksfontein but rather Zeekoegat. Church services were temporarily held in a house on the farm. There was a need for a comfortable church building and fund raising was started.
* 8 October 1922 - The restored and improved building was reconstructed.
* 29–30 April 1967 - The restored building was consecrated.


The history of the [[Dutch Reformed Church]] is set out in a display at the Victoria West Regional Museum, consisting of documents, photographs, maps, Bibles, items of the first Communion Service and the church's first organ. The church was declared a National Monument in 1992.<ref name=Leaflet>{{cite magazine|title=Victoria West Regional Museum |type=leaflet |publisher=Museums Northern Cape|location=Kimberley}}</ref>
10 March 1850- Consecration of the unfinished church takes place
8 October 1922- The restored and improved building was reconstructed
29-30 April 1967- The consecration of the restored building


===Wool auctions===
The history of the [[Dutch Reformed Church]], is set out in a display at the Victoria West Regional Museum, consisting of documents, photographs, old maps, Bibles, item of the first Communion Service and the church’s first organ. The Church was declared a National Monument in 1992.


With the pastoral industry growing, the setting up of a wool market was proposed. The Victoria West Wool Auctions began in 1884 and were well enough supported to justify their being held twice a month. As the market slumped, the activities came to an end. In 1892 an unsuccessful effort was made to revive them.<ref name=Signage/>
'''Wool auctions'''


===Municipal Dam===
With the pastoral industry growing, the setting up of a Wool Market was proposed. The Victoria West Wool Auctions began in 1884 and were well enough supported to justify their being held twice a month. As the market slumped, the activities came to an end. In 1892 an unsuccessful effort was made to revive them.


In April 1921, the Municipal Dam, which was approved at a public meeting in 1913 but delayed through cement shortages, was at last completed. A picnic for the benefit for all the children was followed in the evening by a dance. Boats were introduced for the convenience of the public, and a great debate arose as to the bathing facilities. “Proper shelter and protection must be sought and provided by the bathers while dressing and undressing. Bathers must be dressed in a costume sufficient to cover the body decently from shoulder to halfway between the hip and knee”. The Municipal Dam is still in use, but the rules regarding swimwear are more relaxed.<ref name=Signage/>
'''Municipal Dam'''


===Floods===
In April 1921, the Municipal Dam, which, approved at a public meeting in 1913, had been delayed through cement shortages, was at last completed, and a picnic for the benefit for all the children followed in the evening by a dance. Boats were introduced for the convenience of the public, and a great debate arose at to the bathing facilities. “Proper shelter and protection must be sought and provided by the bathers while dressing and undressing. Bathers must be dressed in a costume sufficient to cover the body decently from shoulder to halfway between the hip and knee”. The Municipal Dam is still in use, however the rules regarding swim wear are more relaxed.


A severe [[flood]] struck the town during the night of 27 February 1871 after a cloudburst in the mountains 15&nbsp;km to the south-west. A wave of four meters high swept down the dry bed of the Zeekoegat River that runs through the village, overflowed its banks and flooded the houses, causing many to collapse. Many people were swept down the river in total darkness, others saving themselves by climbing into trees and on other stationary objects. More than sixty bodies were later recovered and a number of them buried in the same grave, but the number of deaths was never established with certainty.<ref name=Signage/>
'''Floods'''


Another storm occurred at the beginning of December 1897, with the ''[[Cape Argus]]'' reporting that the downpour had been so heavy that "no rain equal to it had been witnessed since the great flood of 1871. Many dams in the district were washed away".
A severe [[flood]] struck the town during the night of 27 February 1871 after a cloudburst in the mountains 15km to the South-West. A wave of four meters high swept down the dry bed of the Zeekoegat River that runs through the village, overflowed its banks and flooded the houses, causing many to collapse. Many people were swept down the river in total darkness, others saving themselves by climbing into trees and on other stationary objects. More than sixty bodies were later recovered and a number of them buried in the same grave, but the number of deaths was never established with certainty.
Another storm occurred at the beginning of December 1897, the [[Cape Argus]] reporting, that the down pour had been so heavy that ‘’no rain equal to it had been witnessed since the great flood of 1871. Many dams in the district was washed away”.
In 1909 the river broke loose again, flooding the town, with extensive damage to property.


In 1909 the river broke loose again, flooding the town, with extensive damage to property.<ref name=Signage/>
'''Transport'''


==Transport==
''Railway''

===Railway===
The [[Cape Government Railways]] oversaw a massive expansion in the [[Cape Colony]]'s railway system in the 1870s, though the route to Victoria West was only completed in 1881. The railway connection spurred economic development and the town's demographic growth over the following decades.<ref>{{cite book|last=Burman |first=Jose |year=1984 |title=Early Railways at the Cape |place=Cape Town |publisher=Human & Rousseau |page=62 |isbn=0-7981-1760-5}}</ref>
The [[Cape Government Railways]] oversaw a massive expansion in the [[Cape Colony]]'s railway system in the 1870s, though the route to Victoria West was only completed in 1881. The railway connection spurred economic development and the town's demographic growth over the following decades.<ref>{{cite book|last=Burman |first=Jose |year=1984 |title=Early Railways at the Cape |place=Cape Town |publisher=Human & Rousseau |page=62 |isbn=0-7981-1760-5}}</ref>
The railway line from [[Cape Town]] was under construction to [[Kimberley]], [[South Africa]] and as it had already reached [[Beaufort West]], fervent hopes were expressed that Victoria West would be the next major halt. Unfortunately the line was carried about eight miles away, so as to traverse the farms belonging to several members of the [[Government]]. As a result the line reached the newly built station at Victoria West Road in 1883. It was not until 1904 that the railway line at last reached Victoria West.


The railway line from [[Cape Town]] was under construction to [[Kimberley, Northern Cape|Kimberley]] and as it had already reached [[Beaufort West]], fervent hopes were expressed that Victoria West would be the next major halt. The line was carried about eight miles away, so as to traverse the farms belonging to several members of the government. As a result, the line reached the newly built station at Victoria West Road in 1883. It was not until 1904 that the railway line reached Victoria West.<ref name=Signage/>
''Motor Cars''
Mr J.P. Vos left Victoria West for Prieska in his motor car on the morning of 21 May 1908. The following is an eye-witness account of the event: “The advent of the motor car was a source of open-mouthed wonder to the inhabitants of Prieska. Small boys fled in terror, women screamed and strong men turned pale”. This journey to and from Prieska was accomplished without a single breakdown.
Due to the increased use of motor cars, the Karoo was no longer as isolated as it used to be. Drivers licences became compulsory and in 1919, the tests more strict. Speed restrictions of 15 miles per hour was set in municipal areas and the maximum speeds around a bend was 6 miles per hour. A census in 1924 showed that Victoria West could have had up to 320 motor cars, including 2 busses and 30 motorbikes.


===Motor cars===
''Air Travel''
In the early twentieth century the increased use of motor cars meant that the Karoo was no longer as isolated as it used to be. A census in 1924 showed that Victoria West had up to 320 motor cars, including 2 busses and 30 motorbikes.<ref name=Signage/>
The town has a small airport {{Airport codes||FAVW}}, used only by light aircraft, but until the 1970s when they stopped operating piston engined airliners such as the [[Douglas DC-3]], it was a refueling stop for [[South African Airways]] between [[Cape Town]] and destinations to the north.
By 1931, the Victoria West Airport was already established and was used by Imperial Airways as a stop over to Cape Town. This lead to the first of three of the modern Air Control Towers, being built here; the other two was built in George and [[Cape Town]]. Shortly afterwards, a waiting room was vuilt for passengers, and a new building was built in 1953, for R16 600. The are no longer large planes that land here, but small and private planes are still used.
In February 1985, the agreement of 66 years between Victoria West and the [[Shell Oil Company]], came to an end. Development of aeroplane technology, economic downturn and modern oil supplies were the reason.
In the Museum, a wooden propeller of the aeroplane (Avro York) from the First World War can be seen.
'''Library'''


===Air travel===
During the 1860’s a number of local institutions came into existence, among them the Victoria West Public Library. In 1874 a catalogue of books contained in the library was printed by the well-known firm if ]]Saul Solomon & Co]] of [[Cape Town]]. The building for the Victoria West Public Library was sold on 10 January 1929 to the Victoria West Hebrew Congregation, who used is as a synagogue. On 11 December 1975, it was sold to Ms. I. Tremble, who restored some of it. Andries P. Olivier from Ysterkoppe, passed away in 1955 and left R8 000 in his will, for the establishment of a library. The new library was built in Church Street and is joint with the Museum. The new building was opened in 26 October 1959. Presently there are two libraries still in use in the town.
[[File:Victoria West, 7070, South Africa - panoramio.jpg|thumb|Victoria West Airport in 2016]]
The town has a small airport {{Airport codes||FAVW}}, used only by light aircraft. Until the 1970s when they stopped operating piston engined airliners such as the [[Douglas DC-3]], it was a refueling stop for [[South African Airways]] between Cape Town and destinations to the north. By 1931, the Victoria West Airport was already established and was used by Imperial Airways as a stopover to Cape Town. This led to the first of three of the modern air control towers built here; the other two were built in George and Cape Town. Shortly afterwards, a waiting room was built for passengers, and a new building was built in 1953. Large planes no longer land here, but small and private planes are still used. In February 1985, the agreement of 66 years between the municipality and the [[Shell Oil Company]] to supply [[avgas]] came to an end.<ref name=Signage/>


==Library==
'''Victoria West Bank'''


During the 1860s a number of local institutions came into existence, among them the Victoria West Public Library. In 1874 a catalogue of books contained in the library was printed by the well-known firm of [[Saul Solomon & Co]] of Cape Town. The building for the Victoria West Public Library was sold on 10 January 1929 to the Victoria West Hebrew Congregation, who used it as a synagogue. Andries P. Olivier from Ysterkoppe died in 1955 and left R8 000 in his will for the establishment of a new library. The new library was built in Church Street and is contiguous with the museum. The new building was opened on 26 October 1959. Presently there are two libraries still in use in the town.<ref name=Signage/>
The [[Standard Bank]] of British South Africa opened one of its first branches in Victoria West, after its foundation in 1862. It is now one of the oldest branches of Standard Bank in South Africa, having been established in 1865. It had a considerable turnover, which, indicated by a balance sheet for the local office from 1865 showed assets of over £30 000. The signatures of the shareholders of 1856 may be seen on a pigskin several meters in length.


==Banking==
'''Schools'''


The [[Standard Bank]] of British South Africa opened one of its first branches in Victoria West, after its foundation in 1862. It is now one of the oldest branches of Standard Bank in South Africa, having been established in 1865. It had a considerable turnover, which, indicated by a balance sheet for the local office from 1865, showed assets of over £30 000. The signatures of the shareholders of 1856 may be seen on a parchment roll several meters in length.<ref name=Signage/>
The Victoria West Public School was established by 1891 and can still be seen at the south end of Victoriastraat. Between 1890 and 1900, a special branch was opened for the “poor students” of Victoria West and students at this school paid three pennies per week for schooling.
On 15 April 1910, the cornerstone for a new school building was laid, and was formed through the Education Department of the Cape Colonies. It was done by Mr J.X. Merriman. In 1952, did the school receive High School status.
However, the school burned down on Friday, 9 June 1967, but on 14 June 1969, was the beautiful new school building consecrated. Since then multiple new schools have been built and consecrated.
The Victoria West Regional Museum, was established in 1969. A historical discovery of a marine [[fossil]] was made in 1960. The Atherstonia seeleyi, is the most complete of its kind in the world and was found on the Blourug farm in the district. The specimens can be found in the Karoo- area of the museum.
The Victoria West Regional Museum is a component of Museums Northern Cape, and is still open to the Public.


==Schools==
==Military History==

The Victoria West Public School was established by 1891 and can still be seen at the south end of Victoria Street. Between 1890 and 1900, a special branch was opened for the “poor students” of Victoria West. Students at this school paid three pennies per week for schooling.

On 15 April 1910, the cornerstone for a new school building was laid, and the school was formed through the Education Department of the Cape Colonies. It was done by [[John X. Merriman]]. In 1952, the school received high school status. The original school burned down on 9 June 1967, but on 14 June 1969, the new building opened. Since then multiple new schools have been built.<ref name=Signage/>

==Victoria West Regional Museum==

The Victoria West Regional Museum was established in 1969. It is a component of Museums Northern Cape.<ref name=Leaflet/>

A marine [[fossil]] was discovered in 1960. The ''[[Atherstonia seeleyi]]'' is the most complete of its kind in the world and was found on the Blourug farm in the district. The specimens can be found in the Karoo area of the museum.

<!-- Hide below section pending copy editing and proper sourcing
==Military history==


'''[[Anglo-Boer War]] 1899-1902'''
'''[[Anglo-Boer War]] 1899-1902'''
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''[[Blockhouse]] at Fortrug''
''[[Blockhouse]] at Fortrug''


The entire supply strategy of the Anglo-Boer War revolved around the railways. This period was, indeed, the high point of railway use in South Africa. To protect this strategic infrastructure, blockhouses were built by the [[British]] during the war. The main line from Cape Town to Kimberley, which passes not far from Victoria West, became one it the most crucial supply-lines in the war. From as far south as Worcester regular blockhouses can still be seen close to railway brides and other vulnerable stretches of track. The best example of a blockhouse near Victoria West can be seen at Fortrug, some 22km due east of the town.
The entire supply strategy of the Anglo-Boer War revolved around the railways. This period was, indeed, the high point of railway use in South Africa. To protect this strategic infrastructure, blockhouses were built by the [[British]] during the war. The main line from Cape Town to Kimberley, which passes not far from Victoria West, became one it the most crucial supply-lines in the war. From as far south as Worcester regular blockhouses can still be seen close to railway brides and other vulnerable stretches of track. The best example of a blockhouse near Victoria West can be seen at Fortrug, some 22km due east of the town.


Small stone forts were also built on many neighbouring farms to spy on the Boer movements and ruins can be seen at Pampoenpoort, Ruigtefontain, Gemsboksfontein, Karenza, Ponkop, Biesiebult and Marthasput.
Small stone forts were also built on many neighbouring farms to spy on the Boer movements and ruins can be seen at Pampoenpoort, Ruigtefontain, Gemsboksfontein, Karenza, Ponkop, Biesiebult and Marthasput.
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The news of 8 February 1901 was that ‘All persons residing in Victoria West division who allow themselves to fall into the enemy’s hands will be guilty of High Treason, even if compelled by the enemy to join them’. Then there was the warning that ‘The wearing of Khaki Uniform in this District by others than the military is strictly prohibited’.
The news of 8 February 1901 was that ‘All persons residing in Victoria West division who allow themselves to fall into the enemy’s hands will be guilty of High Treason, even if compelled by the enemy to join them’. Then there was the warning that ‘The wearing of Khaki Uniform in this District by others than the military is strictly prohibited’.


Farmers were forced to abide by price controls, refusal being punishable under Martial Law. Farmers were also forbidden to show lights between 7pm and dawn. Restrictions were, however, slowly relaxed until a proclamation from the Commandant’s Office on 8 June 1901 informed that, ‘from this date Civilians may be out every evening until 10 O’Clock without passes’.
Farmers were forced to abide by price controls, refusal being punishable under Martial Law. Farmers were also forbidden to show lights between 7pm and dawn. Restrictions were, however, slowly relaxed until a proclamation from the Commandant’s Office on 8 June 1901 informed that, ‘from this date Civilians may be out every evening until 10 O’Clock without passes’.


Even after South Africa’s civil war had eneded, repercussions were felt in the village, some of them of nuisance value more than anything else. For example, a deputation of town’s people was instructed to ‘call on the Colonel concerning the disturbances caused by the soldiers on 6 August 1902’. Nevertheless, the economic impact of the war was evident for many years afterwards due to the artificial prosperity created by large sums being circulated by the Military Chest while little constructive development took place.
Even after South Africa’s civil war had eneded, repercussions were felt in the village, some of them of nuisance value more than anything else. For example, a deputation of town’s people was instructed to ‘call on the Colonel concerning the disturbances caused by the soldiers on 6 August 1902’. Nevertheless, the economic impact of the war was evident for many years afterwards due to the artificial prosperity created by large sums being circulated by the Military Chest while little constructive development took place.
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Group Captain Hugo displayed gallant leadership and great skill and he ended the war with a South African, British, American and French decoration.
Group Captain Hugo displayed gallant leadership and great skill and he ended the war with a South African, British, American and French decoration.
There is an excellent collection of firearms on display at the Victoria West District Museum.
There is an excellent collection of firearms on display at the Victoria West District Museum.

Hide above section pending copy editing and proper sourcing -->


==Communication==
==Communication==


'''The Victoria Messenger'''
===''Victoria West Messenger''===


The Victoria West Messenger, still one of the oldest Weekly [[newspapers]] in the country, celebrated its centenary in 1975. It was established on 11 July 1875 by Christiaan W. Zinn. His son, Christiaan Zinn took over the running of the paper in 1890 and managed it successfully until 1902. Mr D>M Olleman joined the publishing company as manager shortly after his arrival from [[Holland]] in 1901. He later became the managing director of the Karoo Drukpers Maatskappy; moving to Bloemfontein in 1908 where he took over the management of the “Friend”, and started “Farmers Weekly”, “Motor Weekly”, “Outspan” and “Personality” and became the driving force behind the Argus Printing and Publishing Company. This historical display also contain items concerning the Karoo Press.
The ''Victoria West Messenger'', still one of the oldest weekly [[newspaper]]s in the country, celebrated its centenary in 1975. It was established on 11 July 1875 by Christiaan W. Zinn. His son, Christiaan Zinn, took over the running of the paper in 1890 and managed it successfully until 1902. D M Olleman joined the publishing company as manager shortly after his arrival from the [[Netherlands]] in 1901. He later became the managing director of the Karoo Drukpers Maatskappy. He moved to Bloemfontein in 1908 where he took over the management of the ''Friend'', and started ''Farmers Weekly'', ''Motor Weekly'', ''Outspan'' and ''Personality'', and became the driving force behind the Argus Printing and Publishing Company.<ref name=Leaflet/><ref name=Signage>Signage at Victoria West Museum, 47 Church Street, Victoria West</ref>


===Telephone===
The first telephone pole in Victoria West was set up in 1912.
The first telephone line in Victoria West was set up in 1912.<ref name=Signage/>


<!-- Hide section pending sourcing and copy editing
'''Apollo Theatre'''
==Apollo Theatre==


It was built by the Good Hope café owner, a [[Greek]] man, A.A. Bassil, in the late 1920s. In 1956 the theatre was revamped into an essentially art deco auditorium with a 1950s feel. The advent of television as well as the depopulation of the rural areas, however, necessitated the closure of the theatre in 1981.
It was built by the Good Hope café owner, a [[Greek]] immigrant, A.A. Bassil, in the late 1920s. In 1956 the theatre was revamped into an essentially art deco auditorium with a 1950s feel. The advent of television as well as the depopulation of the rural areas, however, necessitated the closure of the theatre in 1981.


Nearly two decades later, the theater was visited by personnel from the [[South African Heritage Resources Agency]] (SAHRA), who described the Apollo as “unique” and “the only cinema of its kind in South Africa.”
Nearly two decades later, the theater was visited by personnel from the [[South African Heritage Resources Agency]] (SAHRA), who described the Apollo as “unique” and “the only cinema of its kind in South Africa.”


The Apollo Development Association (ADA) was established in February 1998 to conserve the theater and to use it for cultural enrichment and economic development through tourism. Within 24 months the ADA, in partnership with De Beers and the Northern Cape Directorate of Arts and Culture, raised over R300 000. By October 1999 new projectors and a sound system were fitted and one month later the Apollo linked with TicketWeb for online booking and ticketing facilities. The original carbon-arc burning equipment is still intact and will be housed in the cinema and photography museum to be installed in the foyer of the newly renovated theater.
The Apollo Development Association (ADA) was established in February 1998 to conserve the theater and to use it for cultural enrichment and economic development through tourism. Within 24 months the ADA, in partnership with De Beers and the Northern Cape Directorate of Arts and Culture, raised over R300 000. By October 1999 new projectors and a sound system were fitted and one month later the Apollo linked with TicketWeb for online booking and ticketing facilities. The original carbon-arc burning equipment is still intact and will be housed in the cinema and photography museum to be installed in the foyer of the newly renovated theater.
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Since then performances have included a Summer Youth Festival and a season of [[Shakespeare]] films for senior school leaders. The beginning of 2000 the cinema opened for regular fortnightly showings of new-release films.
Since then performances have included a Summer Youth Festival and a season of [[Shakespeare]] films for senior school leaders. The beginning of 2000 the cinema opened for regular fortnightly showings of new-release films.


The first Television-station in Victoria West was built in September 1977. The first poles sent signal directly to the Grobbelaars store, where a television was on display in the window, on 10 September 1977. This however, was not enough for the whole town and later a new tower was built on Victoria West Hill.
The first Television transmitter in Victoria West was built in September 1977. The first poles sent signal directly to the Grobbelaars store, where a television was on display in the window, on 10 September 1977. This however, was not enough for the whole town and later a new tower was built on Victoria West Hill.


hide above text pending sourcing and copy editing-->
==Government==
It is situated on the main [[N12 road (South Africa)|N12]] route, at an elevation of {{convert|1300|m}}. It is the seat of the [[Ubuntu Local Municipality]] within the [[Pixley ka Seme District Municipality]].<ref>{{Citation| last = | first = | title = Victoria West, Heart of the Karoo| url=http://www.victoriawest.co.za/ | accessdate = 2009-02-02 }}</ref>


==Yearly Events==
==Notable people==
* [[Deon Davids]]

* [[Charlie Devenish]]
* February – Annual Agriculture Show
* [[Tiger Devenish]]
* May – Karoo Classic Golf Tour; Church Bazaar
* [[Sandile Dikeni]]
* June – Wild Game Festival
* [[Petrus Hugo]]
* August - Livestock Auction
* [[Mannetjies Roux]]
* September – Debutant Ball
* [[Jacobus Johannes Sieberhagen]]
* October – Veteran Motor Show
* November – Farmers Association Year End Function
* December – Annual Agricultural Showdance


==See also==
==See also==
Line 177: Line 222:


==References==
==References==
{{reflist}}<br>
{{Reflist}}

# Victoria West District Museum, Victoria West
# Mrs Rochelle Vlok, Victoria West District Museum, Victoria West
# Museums Northern Cape 1999
# McGregor Museum, Kimberly
# DGR Writing and Research


{{commons category}}
{{Commons category}}


{{Geographic Location
{{Geographic Location
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}}
}}
{{Pixley ka Seme District Municipality}}
{{Pixley ka Seme District Municipality}}
{{Authority control}}


[[Category:Populated places in the Ubuntu Local Municipality]]
[[Category:Populated places in the Ubuntu Local Municipality]]

Latest revision as of 19:13, 4 October 2024

For other uses, see Victoria West (disambiguation).
Victoria West
Victoria-Wes
Wiektorieha-Wes
Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West
Dutch Reformed Church, Victoria West
Official seal of Victoria West
Seal
Victoria West is located in Northern Cape
Victoria West
Victoria West
Victoria West is located in South Africa
Victoria West
Victoria West
Coordinates: 31°24′11″S 23°07′14″E / 31.40306°S 23.12056°E / -31.40306; 23.12056
CountrySouth Africa
ProvinceNorthern Cape
DistrictPixley ka Seme
MunicipalityUbuntu
Established1844[1]
Area
[2]
 • Total
78.95 km2 (30.48 sq mi)
Population
 (2011)[2]
 • Total
8,254
 • Density100/km2 (270/sq mi)
Racial makeup (2011)
[2]
 • Black African23.7%
 • Coloured69.3%
 • Indian/Asian0.4%
 • White5.6%
 • Other0.9%
First languages (2011)
[2]
 • Afrikaans82.1%
 • Xhosa13.8%
 • English1.1%
 • Other3.0%
Time zoneUTC+2 (SAST)
Postal code (street)
7070
PO box
7070
Area code091

Victoria West is a town in the central Karoo region of South Africa's Northern Cape province. It is situated on the main N12 route, at an elevation of 1,300 metres (4,300 ft). It is the seat of the Ubuntu Local Municipality within the Pixley ka Seme District Municipality.[3]

History

[edit]

The town was laid out on the bank of the Brakrivier watercourse in 1843,[4] when the Dutch Reformed Church bought the farm Zeekoegat from the estate of J.H. Classens. It was named Victoria in 1844, after Queen Victoria, though amended to Victoria West in 1855 to distinguish it from an Eastern Cape district.[5] In 1859 the town acquired municipal status.

Dutch Reformed Church

[edit]

The first services of the Dutch Reformed Church were led by Rev. Colin Fraser of Beaufort West in the “Kerkhuis” on the farm Kapoksfontein. The congregation in Victoria West separated from that in Beaufort West during October 1843 when the first local preacher, Rev. W.E. Krige was ordained. For various practical reasons, they decided not to establish the town on the farm Kapoksfontein but rather Zeekoegat. Church services were temporarily held in a house on Zeekoegat. There was a need for a comfortable church building and fund raising was started.[6]

  • 10 March 1850 - Consecration of the unfinished church took place.
  • 8 October 1922 - The restored and improved building was reconstructed.
  • 29–30 April 1967 - The restored building was consecrated.

The history of the Dutch Reformed Church is set out in a display at the Victoria West Regional Museum, consisting of documents, photographs, maps, Bibles, items of the first Communion Service and the church's first organ. The church was declared a National Monument in 1992.[7]

Wool auctions

[edit]

With the pastoral industry growing, the setting up of a wool market was proposed. The Victoria West Wool Auctions began in 1884 and were well enough supported to justify their being held twice a month. As the market slumped, the activities came to an end. In 1892 an unsuccessful effort was made to revive them.[6]

Municipal Dam

[edit]

In April 1921, the Municipal Dam, which was approved at a public meeting in 1913 but delayed through cement shortages, was at last completed. A picnic for the benefit for all the children was followed in the evening by a dance. Boats were introduced for the convenience of the public, and a great debate arose as to the bathing facilities. “Proper shelter and protection must be sought and provided by the bathers while dressing and undressing. Bathers must be dressed in a costume sufficient to cover the body decently from shoulder to halfway between the hip and knee”. The Municipal Dam is still in use, but the rules regarding swimwear are more relaxed.[6]

Floods

[edit]

A severe flood struck the town during the night of 27 February 1871 after a cloudburst in the mountains 15 km to the south-west. A wave of four meters high swept down the dry bed of the Zeekoegat River that runs through the village, overflowed its banks and flooded the houses, causing many to collapse. Many people were swept down the river in total darkness, others saving themselves by climbing into trees and on other stationary objects. More than sixty bodies were later recovered and a number of them buried in the same grave, but the number of deaths was never established with certainty.[6]

Another storm occurred at the beginning of December 1897, with the Cape Argus reporting that the downpour had been so heavy that "no rain equal to it had been witnessed since the great flood of 1871. Many dams in the district were washed away".

In 1909 the river broke loose again, flooding the town, with extensive damage to property.[6]

Transport

[edit]

Railway

[edit]

The Cape Government Railways oversaw a massive expansion in the Cape Colony's railway system in the 1870s, though the route to Victoria West was only completed in 1881. The railway connection spurred economic development and the town's demographic growth over the following decades.[8]

The railway line from Cape Town was under construction to Kimberley and as it had already reached Beaufort West, fervent hopes were expressed that Victoria West would be the next major halt. The line was carried about eight miles away, so as to traverse the farms belonging to several members of the government. As a result, the line reached the newly built station at Victoria West Road in 1883. It was not until 1904 that the railway line reached Victoria West.[6]

Motor cars

[edit]

In the early twentieth century the increased use of motor cars meant that the Karoo was no longer as isolated as it used to be. A census in 1924 showed that Victoria West had up to 320 motor cars, including 2 busses and 30 motorbikes.[6]

Air travel

[edit]
Victoria West Airport in 2016

The town has a small airport (ICAO: FAVW), used only by light aircraft. Until the 1970s when they stopped operating piston engined airliners such as the Douglas DC-3, it was a refueling stop for South African Airways between Cape Town and destinations to the north. By 1931, the Victoria West Airport was already established and was used by Imperial Airways as a stopover to Cape Town. This led to the first of three of the modern air control towers built here; the other two were built in George and Cape Town. Shortly afterwards, a waiting room was built for passengers, and a new building was built in 1953. Large planes no longer land here, but small and private planes are still used. In February 1985, the agreement of 66 years between the municipality and the Shell Oil Company to supply avgas came to an end.[6]

Library

[edit]

During the 1860s a number of local institutions came into existence, among them the Victoria West Public Library. In 1874 a catalogue of books contained in the library was printed by the well-known firm of Saul Solomon & Co of Cape Town. The building for the Victoria West Public Library was sold on 10 January 1929 to the Victoria West Hebrew Congregation, who used it as a synagogue. Andries P. Olivier from Ysterkoppe died in 1955 and left R8 000 in his will for the establishment of a new library. The new library was built in Church Street and is contiguous with the museum. The new building was opened on 26 October 1959. Presently there are two libraries still in use in the town.[6]

Banking

[edit]

The Standard Bank of British South Africa opened one of its first branches in Victoria West, after its foundation in 1862. It is now one of the oldest branches of Standard Bank in South Africa, having been established in 1865. It had a considerable turnover, which, indicated by a balance sheet for the local office from 1865, showed assets of over £30 000. The signatures of the shareholders of 1856 may be seen on a parchment roll several meters in length.[6]

Schools

[edit]

The Victoria West Public School was established by 1891 and can still be seen at the south end of Victoria Street. Between 1890 and 1900, a special branch was opened for the “poor students” of Victoria West. Students at this school paid three pennies per week for schooling.

On 15 April 1910, the cornerstone for a new school building was laid, and the school was formed through the Education Department of the Cape Colonies. It was done by John X. Merriman. In 1952, the school received high school status. The original school burned down on 9 June 1967, but on 14 June 1969, the new building opened. Since then multiple new schools have been built.[6]

Victoria West Regional Museum

[edit]

The Victoria West Regional Museum was established in 1969. It is a component of Museums Northern Cape.[7]

A marine fossil was discovered in 1960. The Atherstonia seeleyi is the most complete of its kind in the world and was found on the Blourug farm in the district. The specimens can be found in the Karoo area of the museum.


Communication

[edit]

Victoria West Messenger

[edit]

The Victoria West Messenger, still one of the oldest weekly newspapers in the country, celebrated its centenary in 1975. It was established on 11 July 1875 by Christiaan W. Zinn. His son, Christiaan Zinn, took over the running of the paper in 1890 and managed it successfully until 1902. D M Olleman joined the publishing company as manager shortly after his arrival from the Netherlands in 1901. He later became the managing director of the Karoo Drukpers Maatskappy. He moved to Bloemfontein in 1908 where he took over the management of the Friend, and started Farmers Weekly, Motor Weekly, Outspan and Personality, and became the driving force behind the Argus Printing and Publishing Company.[7][6]

Telephone

[edit]

The first telephone line in Victoria West was set up in 1912.[6]


Notable people

[edit]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Robson, Linda Gillian (2011). "Annexure A" (PDF). The Royal Engineers and settlement planning in the Cape Colony 1806–1872: Approach, methodology and impact (PhD thesis). University of Pretoria. pp. xlv–lii. hdl:2263/26503.
  2. ^ a b c d "Main Place Victoria West". Census 2011.
  3. ^ Victoria West, Heart of the Karoo, retrieved 2009-02-02
  4. ^ Victoria West history, retrieved 2009-02-02
  5. ^ Raper, P.E. (2004). South African Place Names. Jonathan Ball, Jhb & Cape Town. p. 211. ISBN 1-86842-190-2.
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Signage at Victoria West Museum, 47 Church Street, Victoria West
  7. ^ a b c "Victoria West Regional Museum" (leaflet). Kimberley: Museums Northern Cape. {{cite magazine}}: Cite magazine requires |magazine= (help)
  8. ^ Burman, Jose (1984). Early Railways at the Cape. Cape Town: Human & Rousseau. p. 62. ISBN 0-7981-1760-5.
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