Nestled in the heart of Mpumalanga, South Africa, the town of Amsterdam, now known as eMvelo, is an essential destination for those keen on delving into historical tapestries. If you search for Amsterdam in the context of South Africa, you might be surprised to discover this charming town's rich history, a melting pot of cultures and influences.
The roots of Amsterdam trace back to a Glaswegian named Alexander McCorkindale. In 1868, this visionary embarked on a journey to create a Scottish settlement in South Africa, which he named Roburnia, in honor of Scottish poet Robert Burns. His goal for Amsterdam was to make it a homeland for Scotsmen. Attracting nearly 50 Scots to this nascent settlement, Amsterdam started to take shape.
Although it began as Roburnia, by 5 July 1882, this South African town was renamed Amsterdam. This name change celebrated the bond between the Transvaal region and the Netherlands. The new name, Amsterdam, honored the birthplace of the State Secretary, Eduard Bok, and symbolized gratitude for Dutch support during the First Anglo-Boer War (1880-1881). So, while many associate the name Amsterdam with the Netherlands, this South African town also boasts a deep connection to the name.
Visitors to Amsterdam, or eMvelo as it's known today, will notice that the surrounding farms still carry distinctive Scottish names, a nod to the town's origin. This blending of Dutch and Scottish influences makes Amsterdam, South Africa, a unique cultural hub.
In December 2019, in a move that looked towards the future while respecting the past, Amsterdam underwent another name change, becoming eMvelo. This shift reflects the town's commitment to embracing South Africa's indigenous roots and heritage.
Amsterdam, South Africa, now eMvelo, remains a testament to the country's rich and varied history. A melting pot of Dutch and Scottish influences, Amsterdam has carved out its niche in South African lore. Whether you're a historian or just someone searching for "Amsterdam" with a twist, eMvelo offers a unique blend of stories waiting to be discovered.