Wepener is a typical Free State town, built on conflicts, border battles and a rich farming heritage.

Located on the border with Lesotho, the town is named after Louw Wepener, the leader of the Boers in their war with the Basotho chief Moshoeshoe I in 1865. It is situated in the golden fields of wheat, sunflower and maize and has a reputation for friendliness and traditional hospitality.

Much of Wepener’s attractions are based on its stormy past. The district of Wepener was the scene of many battles, raids and skirmishes during the 19th century. Many graves, mostly without identification, still exist as reminders of the events in the valley of Jammerbergspruit during this stormy period. The rest is thanks to a bountiful land surrounding the town where game roams and agriculture is the staple industry.

Today the town is a commercial center for a 1,725 square km district where mixed farming is practised. Crops include cattle and sheep ranching, dairying, wheat and maize.