Sensational Somerset East

Somerset East, a town at the foot of a mountain...

They say that street names and prominent buildings of a town give you an idea of its history. The streets in this town are lined with architecturally striking buildings and structures that tell of its very interesting heritage. This quaint town with its picturesque streets is worthy of one’s time.

My all time favourite photo of Somerset East was taken up Beaufort Street facing Nojoli Street, with the statue of Rev. Jan Hendrik Hofmeyr and the beautiful structure that is the N.G.Kerk behind it, peeking through the trees lining the street. There are many such photos to be taken and many such structures to be seen in Somerset East.

 As part of the new town activities during this year’s Biltong Festival, happening on the 13^th and 14^th of July 2012, you can take a timeout from the festivities and take the Heritage and Architectural tour of the town. For a bit of sustenance however, the Gastronomical tour is ideal as it catalogues all the restaurants, delis and pub & grills in town.

And maybe, you too will find your favourite thing in Somerset East.

PLEASE NOTE: The maps for the Gastronomical tour and the Heritage and Architectural tour will be launched on the 4^th of May.

YUM!

Last Saturday, the Friends of the Somerset East Museum Country Market is said to have been a very enjoyable affair.  Vega and Janet’s Autumn Chicken Salad Rolls were very popular with market attendees and the scrumptious Museum Apple Tart was enthusiastically enjoyed by everyone who tasted it. The idea of making it a signature dish for subsequent Markets was welcomed by all.

If you missed last weekend’s market don’t despair, because later in the year you can join the Friends of the Museum and be involved in supporting the well-being and the continuity of the two precious institutions by attending the next Friends of the Somerset East Museum Country Market in November.

For more information and enquiries contact:Ros Turner (BLUE CRANE TOURISM OFFICER)
042 243 1448 / 073 698 6539bluecranetourism@telkomsa.net

DID YOU KNOW?

NOJOLI STREET, the main street of Somerset East is, named after Princess Nojoli, who is thought to have lived in the area before the Dutch and British settlers arrived.

ANDRIES VOSLOO, who the Somerset East Hospital is named after, was a previous Administrator of the Cape and a true ‘Somersetter’, he is honoured by the fountain at the entrance to the City Hall in Nojoli Street (previously Charles Street).

DR. NGCIPE MONUMENT AND GRAVE— situated at the Ngcipe Library, honours Dr. Ngcipe for his involvement in the liberation struggle.

SOMERSET EAST MUSEUM – the Museum houses the original Slagtersnek Rebellion beam, which was used to hang five Boer leaders in 1815.

A day in the country...

“Lose yourself in nature and find peace.” – Anonymous

Somerset East, home of the annual Castle Lager East Cape Biltong Festival, is a quaint town that offers its residents a variety of activities to participate in.

One of these is the Country Market. For country products, gifts, fresh produce, plants and delicious lunches…come join the friends of the Somerset East Museum for an experience of Karoo food, culture and lifestyle at the Somerset East Country Market on the 14^th of April 2012.

With the Boschberg as backdrop, the market promises to be as exciting as the ones before…

For enquiries contact Ros Turner on 042 243 1448 or 073 698 6539.