[2] It was named after Cornelis Jacob van de Graaff and his wife, Cornelia Reynet.

In the 18th century, the first mounted commandos of the Dutch settlers reached the area where Graaff-Reinet currently lies.

After a new magistrate was sent to the region to maintain law and order, the peaceful development of the settlement could begin.

In 1795, after years of oppression by the Dutch East India Company (VOC), the inhabitants proclaimed a republic.

For this reason, especially many people from the Graaff-Reinet district participated in the Great Trek.