Vanwyksvlei: 'n Streekhistoriese skets

Abstract

Ever since the days of the pioneers water has played an important part in the founding and development of Vanwyksvlei, situated as it is in the Carnarvon district, one of the most arid parts of the central Karroo. The water scarcity is reflected in the names given to farms by White stockfarmers and Trekboers who, during the mid-nineteenth century, settled themselves in this barren region. A case in point is the township of Vanwyksvlei, which indeed came into being as a direct result of the construction of an irrigation scheme (dam) started in 1882. When it was completed in 1884, the first land below its wall was granted to farmers for irrigation purposes; water canals were also dug. As the township developed, facilities and services such as education, communication and the enforcement of law and order followed. At first farming was hampered by periodical drought and cattle diseases, and the supply of water to the villagers for household use also caused problems. However, the steps which were taken to solve these matters, later proved successful. The management of Vanwyksvlei was consecutively entrusted to the Department of Irrigation, the Department of Lands, and a Settlement Board. A village management board was instituted in 1972 and three years later the town was granted municipal status.