The Military Museum
Fort Beaufort has a rich military past, although in 1816 it began as a mission station established by the London Missionary Society’s Reverend Joseph William. Later the town underwent a new transformation and become a frontier post in 1822 formed by Colonel Maurice Scott.
Fort Beaufort acquired its name in honour of the Duke of Beaufort, who was also the father of the first British governor of the Cape, Lord Charles Henry.
The British army continued to occupy Fort Beaufort up until 1870. Today, the Historical Museum, Military Museum, and Martello Tower house many military artefacts for those interested in discovering more about the town's military past.
Victoria Bridge
Victoria Bridge is one of South Africa’s oldest bridges and was the first bridge to be built across a river in the country. This landmark, built in 1840 can be found on the Kat River Hiking Trail. So as you explore the unique natural environment of the Eastern Cape, keep an eye out for the 3-arched bridge. Still in use today, this multi-arched structure is an engineering feat worth beholding.
Martello Tower
One of Fort Beaufort’s most visited spots is the Martello Tower. Originally built as a defence against the attacks of the Xhosa armies in the 19th century, it later served as a storage house. The multi-purpose nature of the Martello Tower was soon apparent when it became a public latrine. Until 1938 when it was granted a better function as that of a national monument.
There are only six of these towers in the world. South Africa is home to two. The other martello tower resides in Simon's Town. The tower in Fort Beaufort has a small swivel cannon mounted on the open observation area at the top of the tower.
In the old officers' quarters, which date back to 1839, are maps, documents, photographs and equipment relating to the history of the area. The Martello Tower maintained its purpose as a military defence for 32 years.
Blinkwater Monster
Fort Beaufort is not only a picturesque town located in the Eastern Cape Province, but it is also home to the Pareiasaurus Serridens or as it is more commonly known, the ‘Blinkwater Monster’. The large fossilised jaw replete with teeth was discovered by Andrew Geddes Bain, an illustrious builder and palaeontologist.
If the name evokes fear, be assured that the Blinkwater Monster will not be making a re-appearance. The fossil was discovered near Blinkwater River in 1822 and is believed to have belonged to a large 4-legged herbivore dinosaur that lived in the Karoo region 250 million years ago.