SPRINGBOK

Springbok at dusk

In a narrow valley between the imposing granite domes of the Klein Koperberge (small copper mountains) is the town of Springbok, capital of Namaqualand. The town is an administrative, commercial, farming and industrial centre.

Springbok still retains the rough and rugged lifestyle of the 1880s and there are several reminders of these pioneering days. There is an excellent view of the town from the Blue Mine, on the western outskirts of Springbok. This was the original copper mine and the first commercial mine of any type in South Africa. A short walking trail here is a good way to discover the area.

A short walk north of the town, en route to Okiep, is found the Old Smelting Furnace, the oldest of its kind in southern Africa and a national monument which has been unused sine 1871.

On the outskirts of Springbok, en route to Kleinzee, is an old Cemetery. The graves are of mining pioneers dating back to 1860 and from the Anglo-Boer War.

Old Anglican Church now the Information Centre

The Dutch Reformed Church (Klipkerk), a national monument, was completed in 1921 at an estimated cost of £18000. Dressed stone and slate were used in the construction. The building of the church was initiated by the famous DR W.P. Steenkamp. The Anglican Church, situated next to the post office, was completed in 1861 which makes it the second oldest church in Namaqualand. The church now belongs to the municipality and serves as the Regional Tourism Information Office. The Synagogue, which was completed in 1929, is situated in Synagogue Street and is now being used as the Namaqualand Museum.

The Springbok Lodge has permanent photographic, mineral and semi-precious stone displays. The photographic collection captures Namaqualand's kaleidoscope of striking scenery and intriguing history.

The Koppie, a hillock in the centre of town, is of significant historical interest and a number of monuments surround it. A British fort was established here during the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902). A Boer commando under the command of General Smuts attacked the English garrison and the fort was destroyed by dynamite.

The Goegap Nature Reserve which consists of typical Namaqualand vegetation and incorporates the Hester Malan Wild Flower Garden, is situated about 15km southeast of Springbok and is a must for the nature lover.