History
Jansenville was established in 1882 and named after missionary Johannes Jansen. The town grew as a service centre for the surrounding Angora goat and merino sheep farming community. The Angora goat was introduced to the Eastern Cape from Turkey in the 1830s, and the Karoo's harsh semi-arid conditions proved ideal for producing the finest quality fleece. Jansenville became the epicentre of a global mohair industry that persists to this day.
What Jansenville is Known For
Jansenville is known as the Mohair Capital of the World — the surrounding district produces a significant proportion of global mohair output from millions of Angora goats. The South African Mohair Growers' Association has its strongest membership here. The Karoo landscape around Jansenville is classic semi-arid scrubland with dramatic flat-topped koppies. The Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area, accessible 60 km south via a gravel road, is one of the most dramatic and remote landscapes in the Eastern Cape.
Key Areas & Neighbourhoods
The town is very small, centred on the church and a few commercial streets. Residential areas are modest and compact. Surrounding farmland is given over entirely to Angora goat and merino sheep farming. The Sundays River flows through the district, providing limited irrigation. Steytlerville is a similar-sized nearby town. The R75 connects Jansenville to Graaff-Reinet and Uitenhage.
Economy & Industry
Angora goat and merino sheep farming are the overwhelmingly dominant economic activities. Mohair processing and marketing are important sub-industries. Retail and government services are minimal, serving the small local population. The Baviaanskloof ecotourism economy brings some visitor spend to the district. The Eastern Cape Karoo farming character defines the local economy completely.
Tips for Visitors & New Residents
Jansenville is 150 km from Port Elizabeth on the R75. The Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area is 60 km south via a gravel road — a 4x4 is recommended for the full traverse. The town has very basic retail; stock up in Graaff-Reinet or Port Elizabeth. The Angora goat shearing season (February and August) is interesting to witness if arranged through a farm. The Karoo is intensely hot in summer; April–October for comfortable visits. Graaff-Reinet (90 km north-west) is the best base for the region.