Ladybrand is small predominantly agricultural town situated along the R26 Provincial Route in the Free State province of South Africa.
Overview
| Country: | South Africa |
| Province: | Free State |
| District: | Thabo Mofutsanyana |
| Municipality: | Mantsopa |
| Founded: | 1867 |
| Named After: | Lady (Catharina) Brand |
| Total Area: | 42.0 km² (16.2 sq mi) |
| Population: | 4,218 (2011) |
| Population Density: | 100/km² (260/sq mi) |
| Time Zone: | UTC+2 (SAST) |
| Postal Code (street): | 9745 |
| PO Box: | 9745 |
| Area Code: | 051 |
About Ladybrand
Ladybrand is situated on the R26 Provincial Route between the towns of Hobhouse and Ficksburg. It is also strategically situated on the N8 National Route linking Bloemfontein with Maseru in Lesotho.
On the above note, Ladybrand is located approximately 51 km north-east of Hobhouse, 67 km south-west of Ficksburg, 128 km east of Bloemfontein in Mangaung Metropolitan Municipality, 16 km north-west of Maseru, the capital of Lesotho, and 432 km south-west of Johannesburg.
Ladybrand was established in 1867 by Voortrekkers following the Basotho Wars, on land conquered from the Basotho people. The town was named after Lady (Catharina) Brand, the wife of the president of the Orange Free State, Johannes Brand.
In 1900, during the Second Anglo-Boer War, Ladybrand came under the control of the British.
Given that Ladybrand is located near the border to Lesotho, the town is a popular stop-over town for those travelling over the border.
Ladybrand is known for its charm and tranquillity, along with its many sandstone buildings. The area surrounding the town holds some wonderful San rock art, and can be seen on the many beautiful walks and hikes.
Dramatic scenery, ancient history and a warm welcoming community makes Ladybrand a superb holiday and break from city-life.
