1811 – Proclamation of George
In 1811, the city of George was proclaimed a separate district, marking the beginning of its development. Adriaan Geysbertus van Kervel was appointed as the first Landdros (Mayor), serving until 1819. His leadership set the stage for future urban planning and resource management in the area.

1812 – Construction of Furrows and Dam
In 1812, one of Van Kervel’s first actions as mayor was to commission the construction of furrows and the first dam to provide a water supply for the town. This initiative established the first infrastructure for managing the region’s water resources, which were essential for the growth of George. An 1819 map illustrates the original furrows and storage dam that remain part of the Garden Route Botanical Garden today.

1875 – Enlargement of the Dam
By 1875, a larger dam was constructed, which is now referred to as the Van Kervel Dam. This dam, along with the earlier infrastructure, significantly enhanced the water supply for the growing town.

1968 – Nature Reserve Proclamation
On January 31, 1968, the Van Kervel Garden were officially proclaimed a nature reserve by administrator Nico Malan. This designation marked a significant commitment to the conservation of the area’s natural heritage.

1986-1987 – Rehabilitation Efforts
In 1986 and 1987, local volunteers undertook significant efforts to remove alien plant species from the nature reserve and planted indigenous trees.

1992 – the Botanical Society
In 1992, the Garden Route branch of the Botanical Society of South Africa was established, focusing on promoting the conservation of the region’s unique flora and providing support for ongoing restoration efforts.

1995 – Formation of the Southern Cape Herbarium
The Southern Cape Herbarium was founded in 1995, staffed by volunteers and housed at the George Museum. This institution played a crucial role in documenting and preserving the region’s plant species, further enhancing the conservation efforts within the area.

1997 – Foundation of the Garden Route Botanical Gardens Trust
In 1997, the Garden Route Botanical Gardens Trust was founded, bringing together local stakeholders committed to developing and managing the botanical garden.

1998 – Official Opening of the Garden Route Botanical Garden
The Garden Route Botanical Garden was officially opened to the public in October 1998, celebrating its dedication to conserving and showcasing the rich indigenous flora of the Southern Cape.

2000-2001 – Construction Projects and the Moriarty Centre
In the early 2000s, several significant projects were initiated, including the construction of a lookout point, now known as the Medicinal Spiral, completed in 2000. In 2001, Audrey Moriarty purchased the premises at 49 Caledon Street, which was later donated to the GRBG Trust. This building, known as the Moriarty Centre, now houses the offices and the Southern Cape Herbarium, serving as a hub for educational programs and research.

2012-2016 – Development of Amenities and Facilities
Between 2012 and 2016, various amenities were developed to enhance visitor experience and engagement with nature. The gazebo concert area was established in 2012, followed by the construction of the propagation nursery in 2013. The Bird Hide was built in 2014. In 2016, the Garden Route Environmental Education Centre was constructed, further supporting educational initiatives.

2021-2022 – New Initiatives
In 2021, the Garden Route Birds of Prey Center was established, providing education and awareness about local raptor species. In 2022, the completion of the wheelchair friendly Mushroom Meander Trail added another dimension to the garden’s offerings.

2023 – 2024: Restoration of the Van Kervel Dam Wall
The Van Kervel Dam, nearly 200 years old, had experienced significant erosion and structural degradation. In November 2021, a severe flood in George caused a portion of the dam wall to collapse. In response to this critical situation, the municipality secured the necessary funding for essential repairs.

To reinforce the dam wall, 3,000 cubic meters of clay were brought in and utilized. Furthermore, an overflow system was installed to replace the original outflow valve, enhancing the dam’s capacity to manage future flooding events.

About the Future
The GRBG envisions a range of smaller projects, including a new parking area and toilet facilities for the Mushroom Meander, as well as the establishment of a Karoo Conservatory and succulent rehabilitation nursery.

Additionally, we hope to expand the garden further up into the mountain to enhance biodiversity. This greater garden will hold endless possibilities for development, including an amphitheater, indoor and outdoor conference facilities, and picnic sites next to waterfalls.