Klerksdorp – Historic Town
Located in the North West Province of South Africa, Klerksdorp started out in 1837 as a Voortrekker settlement along the scenic banks of the Schoonspruit River. The tranquil farming lifestyle of the area was disrupted with the discovery of gold in August 1886, which led to a rapid transformation. Within a short time, a bustling town emerged, complete with over 70 taverns and even a stock exchange, catering to the influx of fortune-seekers.
Despite the gold being deeply embedded in reef rock—making extraction difficult—the town’s character endured long after the gold rush faded in the late 1890s. The name Klerksdorp honors Jacob de Clerq, the area’s first magistrate.
Klerksdorp also played a significant role during the Second Boer War and was the site of a large British concentration camp. The graveyard, where nearly a thousand Boer women and children are buried, stands as a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during that era.
Visitors today can explore original 1880s mining shafts, enjoy exhibitions at the Klerksdorp Museum, or embark on the Oudorp Hiking Trail to relive the town’s historic past. Just 15 kilometers outside town, the Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve offers an exceptional wildlife experience, including over 150 species of birds. The Klerksdorp Dam, located on the Ventersdorp road, is another popular spot for leisure and outdoor recreation.Klerksdorp continues to evolve, yet remains rooted in its rich heritage and old-world charm.
