On Day 2 of our “Tour My Province: Hessequa Edition” journey, Afrikaap Radio set up our outside broadcast at one of the most iconic landmarks in the region – Die Ou Tronk (The Old Jail) in Riversdal. What began as a simple stop on our itinerary quickly became one of the most memorable and meaningful parts of the tour.
Nestled beneath tall avo trees and surrounded by a garden that seems to exhale history, calm, and creativity, Die Ou Tronk is a living archive – a place where heritage, hospitality, and the ingenuity of local artisans meet. And on this particular morning, it became our studio, our storybook, and our feast!
A Building with a Long Memory
As Tannie Louise – owner, storyteller, and daughter of the late Mattheus Koen explained, Die Ou Tronk is one of the oldest historical buildings in the town.
Built in 1838 by the Barrys of Swellendam, the building originally served as a trading store before being purchased by the State in 1860 and converted into a jail. Over the years, it functioned as a police station, courtroom, prison, and even the on-site residence for the jailer.
One of the most haunting chapters in its history came in 1899, when the only execution in Riversdal took place here. “My pa het altyd gesê die stories van hierdie plek loop diep,” Louise shared with us. Today, a replica of the travelling gallows used in the 19th century stands as a somber reminder of that era.
The jail officially closed its doors on 31 March 1979. After being sold by tender, it was eventually registered in the name of Tannie Louise’s father, Mattheus Koen, in 1984 – beginning its transformation into the space we know today.
From Cells to Sanctuary
Walking through the old stone corridors, it’s hard to imagine the building’s former life. Each cell has been lovingly reinvented as a unique boutique filled with antiques, handcrafted items, artworks, curios, and gifts.
The moment you step inside, the past and present blend in a way that feels both respectful and deeply creative – a tribute to Riversdal’s heritage and to the artisans who keep local culture alive.
“There’s something healing about this place,” Louise told us. “The atmosphere, the plants, the history… mense kom hier om asem te haal.”
She’s right. Die Ou Tronk is a balm for the soul.
The Famous Carrot Cake (Yes, We Tasted It)
Of course, no visit would be complete without sampling the food that locals and travellers rave about. Since 2009, Die Ou Tronk has operated as a coffee shop serving some of the best breakfasts, carrot cake, cheesecake, and homemade treats in the region.
We are delighted to confirm: The carrot cake lives up to the legend! Moist, textured, and spiced just right, it’s the kind of slice that makes you close your eyes and forget all your worries.
Broadcasting with Heart
Setting up our outside broadcast under the avo trees felt like bringing the spirit of Afrikaap Radio home – storytelling, community, heritage, and connection. Listeners from across the province tuned in as we explored the site, spoke to visitors, laughed with Tannie Louise, and celebrated the magic of this landmark.
Die Ou Tronk reminded us why “Tour My Province” matters. Our aim is not just to travel, but to showcase the people, places, and histories that make the Western Cape rich with spirit, resilience, and beauty.
A Must-Stop on Any Hessequa Journey
If you’re passing through Riversdal – or even if you’re not – make Die Ou Tronk a destination. Come for the history, stay for the creativity, breathe in the atmosphere, and definitely order the carrot cake.
Thank you, Tannie Louise, for welcoming Afrikaap Radio into your world, sharing your stories, and holding this heritage with such grace and heart. We’ll be back!