Richmond, KwaZulu-Natal

Richmond is a town situated on the banks of the upper Illovo River in the midlands of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Timber, sugarcane, poultry, citrus fruit and dairy goods are produced here.

It was established in 1850 as Beaullieu by British Byrne Settlers who were originally from Beaullieu, the seat of the Duke of Buccleuch in Richmond, North Yorkshire. The name was later changed to Richmond for ease of pronunciation.

The arrival of the settlers brought about a slow return of various remnants of african people who fled the raiding Zulu armies. The Zulus called these refugees "amaBhaca", "(people who hide)". Although composed of elements of many different groups, the Bhaca have developed their own identity.

One of Natal's greatest tycoons, Joseph Baynes, a Yorkshireman by birth, was a pioneer the dairy industry. His Baynesfield Estate was bequeathed in his will to the nation of South Africa.