Edenburg, near Bloemfontein

Edenburg is situated 83km South-West of Bloemfontein. This typical Transgariep Town, nestled in the golden prairies alongside the Country's busiest National road, sets its own pace as a prosperous sheep and cattle farming centre. The Town was founded on 24 February 1862 when the farm Rietfontein was purchased to built a Church and an active Berliner Missionary Station, the oldest of its kind in the Free State. At the Dutch Reformed Church, there are 19th Century Voortrekker graves. The first application for recognition as a Town was turned down by the Volksraad, but proclamation was eventually granted on 4 March 1863. Municipal status was won in 1891. The origin of the name is unclear. The most likely explanation is that it is a reference to the Garden of Eden of the Bible. However, there are those who believe that it is an Afrikaans version of Edinburgh in Scotland. Or there is a sheep and cattle ranching Farm, with this name, 'Edenburgh'. The economy of the Town and 2000 square km district is based on sheep and cattle ranching. The district is drained by the Riet River and its many small tributaries. There have been Postal Coach Tracks discovered, dating back to 21 February 1952. A variety of accommodation to suit every taste – including bed and breakfasts, chalets, caravan and camping facilities and self-catering units.