Four galleons were constructed here as long ago as 1650, which must have been of good size, for they crossed the ocean to Rio Janeiro.
Massangano district is well adapted for sugar and rice, while Cambambe is a very superior field for cotton; but the bar at the mouth of the Coanza would prevent the approach of a steamer into this desirable region, though a small one could ply on it with ease when once in.

It is probable that the objects of those who attempted to make a canal from Calumbo to Loanda were not merely to supply that city with fresh water, but to afford facilities for transportation.

The remains of the canal show it to have been made on a scale suited for the Coanza canoes.

The Portuguese began another on a smaller scale in 1811, and, after three years' labor, had finished only 6000 yards.

Nothing great or useful will ever be effected here so long as men come merely to get rich, and then return to Portugal.
The latitude of the town and fort of Massangano is 9d 37' 46" S., being nearly the same as that of Cassange.