The iconic “Rooi Bruggie” in Willowmore was erected as a pedestrian bridge over the Noodsloot.  It was built by The Thames Ironworks and Shipbuilding Company on instruction by the Cape Government around 1903. At the time, there was always water in the river and it was especially difficult to get across after big rains. Also, not everybody had access to a horse-drawn cart or ox wagon to get across to the other side without getting their feet, pants or dress wet as the road was a drift and had no bridge. The then town council under Mayor BZ Stegmann appealed to the colonial government to have a pedestrian bridge built.