Salem

The little settler village of Salem (meaning ‘peace’) was established in 1820 and gained its name when the Xhosa agreed to leave the village in peace after negotiations during the War of Hintsa.

Salem lies between Grahamstown and the popular seaside town of Kenton-on-Sea. This little 1820 village is famous for its wonderful array of historical buildings.

Explore Salem

• The stone churches are still in use and are worth a visit. The Methodist Church is the oldest in South Africa.
• Salem is home to the oldest English school in the country.
• View the many original settler cottages which are still lived in today.
• Play cricket on the oldest cricket pitch in the country.