Cradock

At the end of the fourth frontier war between the Xhosa tribe and white settlers, Sir John Cradock, Governor of the Cape, thought there was a need for two new frontier strongholds. He built Grahamstown in the east and Cradock in the northeast.

Cradock was founded on the banks of the Great Fish River in 1812. The original farm homestead was converted into a jail and other official buildings were added as the need arose.

The original Dutch Reformed Church, which dominates the town, was built as a duplicate of St Martins-in-the-Field in London. The architectural style was apparently chosen as an antidote to the homesickness suffered by the Minister's wife, who came from London. The consecration ceremony of the church was delayed by an hour as the builder refused to hand over the keys to the church until he was paid in full. A hat was hurriedly passed around and the money raised with pledges and notes.

Today Cradock is a centre for production of wool, mohair, beef, lucerne, dairy and fruit. The hot sulphur springs have been developed into a resort frequented by people with rheumatism and similar ailments. The town itself is a goldmine of national monuments, interesting sights and friendly people.

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