SPRINGBOK
Springbok, heart of Namakwa and one of the most significant stops on the N7 between Cape Town and Namibia, lies in a narrow valley between the high granite domes of the Klein Koperberge, locally referred to as “klipkoppe”.
In addition to an abundant supply of drinking water, the town owes its existence to the copper industry which became a reality in 1852 with the origination of the open-cast Blue Mine just west of Springbok.
Originally known as Springbokfontein, after the many antelope that inhabited the region, it was shorted to Springbok in 1911. The town was established in 1862 and it developed around a small hillock in the middle of this valley. It became the communications, administrative, educational and commercial centre for the mining of this region.
A fascinating collection of photographs and historical memorabilia is documented and housed at the Synagogue (1929) which now serves as a museum. An extensive collection of over 900 rock, mineral and gemstone specimens are housed at the Springbok Lodge amongst which you will find amethyst geodes, unusual quartz crystals from a nearby mine, azurite and dioptise.
Centrally situated, Springbok becomes a hive of activity during the annual wild flower season (August to October). The Goegap Nature Reserve as well as the Skilpad Nature Reserve form an integral part of your visit to Springbok during the annual flower season. |
