Uniondale History
Uniondale’s history is shaped by its establishment in 1856, its nineteenth-century industrial growth, and its strategic importance during the Anglo-Boer War. Once a busy centre for wagon building and the ostrich feather trade, the town later evolved into a quiet but resilient agricultural community with a
well-preserved architectural heritage.
The Genesis of the Amalgamated Township (1856)
Uniondale was officially founded in 1856 through the amalgamation of two rural settlements, Hopedale and Lyon. The merger created a single economic and administrative centre for the region. During this period, Uniondale became an important industrial hub, particularly known for wagon and cart building that supported travel and trade into the South African interior.
Military History: The Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902)
Uniondale’s location made it strategically important during the Anglo-Boer War, leading to significant military activity in and around the town.
- Defence forts: Five stone forts were constructed by the British military and local Town Guards. Four of these remain visible today, with one fully restored.
- Boer invasions: The town was occupied twice. In January 1901, Commandant Gideon Scheepers led a bloodless occupation on a Sunday. In keeping with strict Sabbath observance, prisoners were released and the Boer forces withdrew the following morning.
- Intense conflict: A second invasion in August 1901 resulted in heavy fighting, multiple deaths, and large-scale skirmishes involving hundreds of combatants across the district.
Architectural and Religious Heritage
Uniondale has largely avoided modern over-development and retains a high concentration of historic buildings.
Seven structures in the town are declared National Monuments.
| Landmark | Historical Significance |
|---|---|
| Uniondale Watermill (1854) | Built by James Stewart and home to the largest water wheel in South Africa. |
| All Saints Anglican Church (1876) | Designed by Sophia Gray, the first female ecclesiastical architect in South Africa. |
| Dutch Reformed Church (1886) | Known for its muted bells. The original tower cracked under their weight in 1896 and was rebuilt in 1908. |
| Jewish Synagogue (1905) | Features unique murals and is maintained by the local Lions Club. |
| Nagmaal Huisies | Small communion houses built by farmers for monthly church services, featuring high stoeps that allowed direct access from horse-drawn carriages. |
Economic Evolution and the Modern Era
After the decline of wagon building and the ostrich feather trade, Uniondale’s economy shifted toward agriculture, focusing on deciduous fruit such as apples and pears, seed production, and livestock farming, particularly sheep and goats.
- Aloe industry: The establishment of African Aloe in 1992 positioned Uniondale as a leader in the processing of Aloe ferox for international pharmaceutical and cosmetic markets.
- Natural challenges: The town has faced recurring environmental pressures, including a severe water crisis in 2026 that led to Level 3 emergency restrictions following raw water pipeline failures and critically low dam levels.
Uniondale is also closely associated with the 1968 car accident involving Maria Roux, an event that gave rise to the enduring legend of the “Uniondale Ghost,” which remains the town’s most widely known modern story.
