In 1854, when the local farmers wanted to develop a community centre, they bought a piece of land from one of the farmers, who requested that the town be called after Hannover in Germany, as his forefathers had come from there. Somehow, the second “n” of the German name fell away and the town is still called Hanover.
Adventure and Sport
Hunting: Contact the Northern Cape Hunters’ Association for more information.
Art and Crafts
Angora Handcraft Centre: The centre, next to the N1 National Road, sells beautiful Angora wool handcrafted articles, such as tapestries, wall hangings and jerseys. Tours are also conducted to venues where visitors can buy handmade articles such as leather shoes and handbags.
Fauna and Flora
Mieliefontein Ostrich Farm: Meet the fascinating ostrich, a bird that cannot fly, is bigger than some species of antelopes and which can out-kick a rugby player.
History and Architecture
Dutch Reformed Church: This is regarded as one of the finest buildings belonging to this denomination in the country. In 1872, the first minister appointed to this church, the Reverend Thomas Burgers, became the second President of the South African Republic also called the Transvaal.
Cenotaph: This memorial was erected to honour those South Africans who died during World War II.
Hanover Museum: The building housing the museum is the original homestead around which the town developed. The museum exhibits everyday articles used during pioneering days, such as old glassware, bottles, clothing and implements.
House of Olive Schreiner: Olive Schreiner, the famous South African author and feminist, lived in this house in Grace Street during the Anglo-Boer War, mostly by herself, as her husband was in England on a pro-Boer campaign. Her husband returned in July 1900 and started a law practice in the town.
