The Dutch Reformed Church established the village of Riebeek East in 1830 on the farm
Mooimeisiesfontein, the home of the famous Voortrekker leader Piet Retief. Previously the local
Boer farmers had to trek to Uitenhage, about 130 kilometres away for the Nagmaal (Communion
services). The need for a church in the area became very apparent and while the British
government turned down an initial request in 1826, a second in 1830 was granted. In the South
African tradition, a town grew up around the church.
Riebeeck East is now in the midst of a game and sheep farming area and offers many attractions and hiking trails through the surrounding diverse and beautiful hills. The Mooimeisiesfontein farmhouse, the home of Piet Retief, still stands and has been declared a National heritage site.
