10 July 1768
Johan Abraham Nel of Stellenbosch planted an almond tree near a fountain at the banks of the Sak River to commemorate the birth of his son. This tree developed into an oasis where Johann Heinrich Lutz of the Rhenish Missionary Society founded the missionary station Amandelboom near the Singkoppies in 1845.
Under British rule the missionary station was renamed in recognition of the former British Colonial Secretary, Sir Hampden Willis.People of diverse backgrounds have found a home in this otherwise secluded area. Characterised by a rich community and vibrant cultural life, the people of the area have learnt to be dependent on each other, carving out bonds that grow stronger with each day.
An ongoing drought and the relatively low rainfall the region faces, makes it the ideal spot for extensive disease-free livestock farming. The area boasts a number of top breeds including the dorper and merino as well as other indigenous varieties as the primary sheep breeds.
The area is also the habitat of the very rare and endangered riverine rabbit.
The uniqueness that’s found in Karoo meat flavour, is down to the natural Karoo bush habitat which includes Bushman grass, sheep’s bush, bitou, ganna, wild rosemary and rock lizard bush species of plants and shrubs.
The Williston agricultural community takes pride in owning and managing its own co-op with the aim of providing the connoisseur with flavourful, healthy red meat of the highest quality.
