History Facts about Arniston - Photo Journey

History Facts about Arniston - Photo Journey

Xplorio Headquarters

Tucked away in a secluded corner of the Overberg between L’Agulhas and De Hoop Nature Reserve, you’ll find the quiet little village of Arniston/Waenhuiskrans. Known for its characteristic white-washed fishermen’s cottages and beautiful cerulean waters, thus coastal hamlet is become a great getaway for those who truly want to escape and get lost in a village that time forgot. And although it holds a varied past, like the other towns along the southern coast of Africa, the community of Arniston has thrived and kept true to their traditions.

Here are some historical facts about Arniston/Waenhuiskrans:

1. The town of Arniston/Waenhuiskrans was established in 1922.

2. The town was originally named after the nearby Waenhuiskrans Cave, which is also believed to be the largest coastal cave with no supporting pillar. The name comes from the legend that the cave is big enough to turn an ox wagon with a full span of oxen around inside.

3. In 1815, Waenhuiskrans saw the wrecking of the HMS Arniston which lent to the town’s future name. It was added in memory of the ship and its 372 crew members that were claimed by the treacherous Agulhas Reef in a storm.

4. The town was officially proclaimed as the only town in South Africa with a double barrel name in 1981.

5. The nearby fishing village of Kassiesbaai was declared a National Heritage Site in 1986. The quaint little hamlet has been the inspiration of various artists and photographers due to its lime-washed houses with their thatched roofs and the pristine backdrop of white sandy dunes and cerulean ocean.

Decorated with an array of artefacts from the past and its seemingly untouched natural assets, the town of Arniston has managed to stay pure throughout the ages. Welcoming you with smiling faces and traditional Cape Malay hospitality be sure to explore more of the History of Arniston/Waenhuiskrans.

History Facts about Arniston - Photo Journey

Xplorio

Xplorio is a marketing company that has created a digital platform to help local communities in the Overberg accurately represent themselves online. The user-friendly Xplorio platform allows towns and businesses to create an online presence that is accurate and true to life. This representation help...

View Profile

Recent Posts

Great Money-Saving Specials in the Overberg!

Great Money-Saving Specials in the Overberg!

By making the most of Xplorio’s special pages you save money and support local businesses in the Overberg!

Have You Heard? Overberg Community News!

Have You Heard? Overberg Community News!

Every day, awesome people who call the Overberg home, share their uplifting stories, business news, municipal announcements and stunning town-friendly photos.

Gold Again! South Africa Shines at RHS Chelsea Flower Show!

Gold Again! South Africa Shines at RHS Chelse...

For the second year running, South Africa has struck gold at the prestigious RHS Chelsea Flower Show in London. 

How to Support Local Businesses in the Quiet Season

How to Support Local Businesses in the Quiet ...

It feels like yesterday we were rushed off our feet at work, queuing at packed grocery stores...

On the Coffee Table: Beautiful Betty’s Bay

On the Coffee Table: Beautiful Betty’s Bay

Something special is brewing in Betty’s Bay, and it's not just the coffee.

Local Talent, Big Sound: Dinah’s New Release Is Live!

Local Talent, Big Sound: Dinah’s New Releas...

South African singer-songwriter and former Gansbaai resident Dinah-Lee Jane Visser released her debut single.