12 October 1679
Simon van der Stel appointed Commander of the Cape
Simon van der Stel assumed command of the Cape on 12 October 1679, beginning an administration associated with expanded settlement, agriculture and VOC influence.
View in timelineOn 12 October 1679, Simon van der Stel arrived at the Cape and assumed command of the VOC settlement. His administration supported agricultural expansion, the development of Stellenbosch and later projects that extended Company authority and settler production beyond the Peninsula.
Significance
His appointment placed a new commander at the head of the Cape administration as the VOC intensified agricultural production, inland settlement and control of regional trade.
Why it matters
His appointment placed a new commander at the head of the Cape administration as the VOC intensified agricultural production, inland settlement and control of regional trade.