FRANSCHHOEK
n the Franschhoek river, tributary to the Berg River. It was established in 1860 and attained municipal status in 1881. Means ‘French corner’, or ‘French glen’ in the Groot Drakenstein valley It takes its name from the region, so designated because French Huguenot refugees were settled there in 1688.
Dutch Reformed Church
Dutch Reformed Church – The congregation started on 21 February 1845. This church was built in 1847. It was enlarged in 1881.
Monument French Huguenot
Monument French Huguenot – The architect was JC Jongens of Amsterdam whilst in Cape Town. The monument was completed in 1943 and inaugurated on 17 April 1948. It commemorates the contribution made by the Huguenots. The three arches symbolize the Holy Trinity. The sculptor of the woman was Coert Steynberg. Next to it a Huguenot Memorial museum was opened in 1967.
Wine Tram
Wine Tram – the1920’s style tram operates on original railway tracks which was in use until 1904. The tracks were designed to bring farmers’ produce from the valley to the town. Currently only runs to Rickety Bridge wine farm. The tracks were restored in 2012.
Rickety Bridge Manor House
Rickety Bridge Manor House - – just off Huguenot St R45 road – The estate was part of La Provence farm since 1694. It became known as Rickety Bridge due to an old railway bridge which crossed the Franschhoek river. The wooden bridge was replaced in 1996.
La Bri Manor house,
La Bri Manor house, Verdun Rd – La Bri was purchased by Pieter Eduard Haumann in 1744. The house was constructed about that time. The house was enlarged in 1862.
