Landboubedrywighede in die Franschhoekvallei, 1688-1827

Abstract

Franschhoek Valley's unique agrarian character can be attributed to the settlement of a large group of Huguenots in this region since 1688. From the beginning wine farming was the most important industry. Grain production was neglected due to climatic conditions, while fruit, vegetables and cattle were farmed mainly for private consumption. In time, some wine farmers made considerable progress in spite of detrimental factors such as long delays in the granting of freehold on land, the labour shortage and desertion, droughts, unseasonable rains, the drop in the price of wine, the high cost of transport, poor roads, long distances to the markets and liquor-running. However, by their dedication and diligence the Huguenots and other pioneers laid the foundation of the renowned wine and fruit industries in the present-day Franschhoek Valley.