History of the Uthungulu in KwaZulu Natal
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Originally called ‘Bushman’s River’, Estcourt was renamed in 1861 after Mr T S S S Estcourt, MP of North Wiltshire and sponsor of the British settlers who later settled here.
The area has a rich history and a range of cultures. The urban areas originally developed as stopover points for oxwagons.
Development of the N3 National Highway, that bypassed Estcourt in the 1970s, contributed to the economic decline of the area.
The Umtshezi Municipality comprises the former Estcourt and Weenen TLCs, the informal settlements of Cornfields, Thembalihle, Mimosadale, and numerous settlements around Weenen.
The area has many areas of scenic beauty. There are mountainous areas, mainly in the north, and numerous river valleys, including that of the uThukela River along the northern boundary, and the Bushman’s River, which traverses the centre of the municipal area.
The Bushman’s River is well suited to development for eco-adventure tourism, as there are numerous settlements in close proximity to the river. The Weenen Game Reserve lies within the municipal area and will be the core area of the proposed Thukela Biosphere.
Places of interest
Fort Durnford Museum; Willowgrange Battle Field; Vechtlaager; Zaailaager; Gatsrand; Wagendrift Dam; Weenen Game Reserve; Moor Park Game Reserve.
Towns within the municipal boundaries: Beacon Hill, Chieveley, Ennersdale, Estcourt, Frere, Rockmount, South Downs, Weenen, Wembezi .
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