The village of Elsie's River, also known as Elsie's Kraal River, was probably named in honour of one Elsje van Suurwaarde, a widow who outlived two husbands and farmed in the area in 1698. The railway line from Cape Town reached Elsie's River on 13 February 1862. In 1980 the Suburb became a scene of total bloodshed and violence, when a school boycott became violent and police shot dead two 15-year-olds! This suburb was restricted to Coloured people! Today Elsie's River has many public amenities such as libraries, supermarkets, eight schools and a Civic Centre! The Municipality is The City Of Cape Town.
It is with great sadness that we note the passing of Soli Philander (19 January 1961 - 4 March 2026), one of South Africa's most beloved and versatile entertainers. Born in Elsies River, Cape Town.