Welcome to the website of the
Jewish Community of Montagu
Montagu is in the Little Karoo area of the Western Cape. It is 195 km north-east of Cape Town and 15 km north-east of Robertson. It was probably better known in South Africa for its scary mountain pass. The pretty valley town with its hot springs became a health resort and spa. It was surrounded by productive orchards and vineyards.
Jews arrived from the 1880s until the early 20th century. Many started as itinerant peddlers. They became ostrich feather traders, shopkeepers and general dealers. The only hotel was owned by Mr Goldberg. At the peak in 1951 there were 70 Jews recorded in Montagu. By 1991 there were only five.
Their children became prominent doctors, lawyers and Jewish and civic leaders in South Africa, as can be seen on the People page.
To join the CHOL email list email info@chol.website.
Click here for a map.
Website of the Montagu Jewish Community
Created and hosted by CHOL – Community History On-Line
Acknowledging information from Keith Koonin, whose father, Abraham Koonin,
lived there with his family until he was 9 years old, as well as
Jewish Life in the South African Country Communities, Volume III,
researched by the South African Friends of Beth Hatefutsoth.
Edited by Geraldine Auerbach MBE, London
Formatted and uploaded by Bramie Lenhoff, Delaware, USA
September 2026
