For many fortune-seekers of the late 1860`s, Karoo 1 was a welcome stopover on their long journey to the newly discovered diamond mines in Kimberley.
Already at that time, the farm was known for its hospitality and good food. It was their `karbonaatjie`, a generous portion of wholesome `padkos` or lunch pack, that earned the farm its former name of `Karbonaatjieskraal`. Wrapped in a damp cloth or newspaper, it was a treasured source of comfort for the travellers on their journey further north along the Hex River Pass.