The following lists events that happened during 1861 in South Africa.
Incumbents Governor of the Cape of Good Hope and High Commissioner for Southern Africa: Sir George Grey (until 14 August). Sir Robert Wynyard (acting from 15 August). Lieutenant-governor of the Colony of Natal: John Scott. State President of the Orange Free State: Marthinus Wessel Pretorius. President of the Executive Council of the South African Republic: Stephanus Schoeman (acting).
Events August 15 – Sir Robert Wynyard becomes acting Governor of the Cape of Good Hope and High Commissioner for Southern Africa.
September 16 – Roman Rock Lighthouse at the entrance to Simon's Town begins operating after taking 4 years to build.
Births 10 November – Robert T. A. Innes, astronomer and secretary-accountant at the Cape observatory. (d. 1933) Sefako Mapogo Makgatho, the second African National Congress president. (d. 1951)
Deaths
References