Estcourt

In the pioneer days, when the road to the north was no more than a rough wagon track, a fort was erected on a hill that dominated the fording place over the Bushman's river. The fort was first occupied in 1847 and is reputedly haunted by numerous ghosts.

The fort was designed as a substantial stronghold, built to protect transport riders and the herds of cattle driven across the ford. It is as secure as any castle, with drinking-water tanks in the basement, a drawbridge, a moat and two secret tunnels.

A trading station, a blacksmith and an inn were established under the protection of the garrison, and in 1863 it was decided to call the village Estcourt in honour of Thomas Estcourt, an English parliamentarian who sponsored the immigration of settlers into the area.

Today Estcourt is a thriving centre of industry, particularly for livestock and meat products.

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