Dawid Louw (1850-1927) was a member of Lucas Meijer's boer commando, which in 1884, reacted to Dinuzulu's plea for help against his uncle Zibhebhu, who was usurping the throne.

The town has been visited by several well-known politicians, including chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi and President Jacob Zuma.

Emalia decided to improve the lives local residents by starting a nursing college called Nandisa training institute.

[4] An area northwest of Louwsburg is characterized by rugged, impenetrable ravines, and is known as "Duiwel se Wêreld" (Afrikaans: Devil's terrain).

According to Afrikaner legend, it was the work of the devil, who finding it inferior to God's creation, tore it asunder.