Modder River

Northern Cape

The little town of Modder River is situated near the point where the Modder River joins the Riet River. The Afrikaans word "modder" refers to "mud".

The town serves the local farmers who raise beef cattle and grow a number of crops under irrigation. A lot of grain is grown in the surrounding areas.

On 28 November 1899 a bloody took place in the area between the British and Boer forces. Lord Methuen led his British forces against the Boers led by General Piet Cronje. The British succeeded in driving the Boer forces back but both sides had many casualties.

Today one may visit a block house built by the British to guard the bridge over the river. It is a good example of these buildings which were built in many places around the country.

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