Nestled within South Africa's scenic Mpumalanga province, Middelburg stands as a testament to the region's intricate past, reflecting both triumphs and tribulations over the centuries.
From Nasareth to Middelburg. Middelburg's origins trace back to 1860 when the Republic of Lydenburg conceived it as a halfway station between Lydenburg and Pretoria. This very republic would soon amalgamate with the South African Republic (ZAR). Initially, the prospective town was to be established on two farms: Klipfontein and Keerom. However, plans swiftly changed when the Dutch Reformed Church bought an adjacent farm named Sterkfontein and subsequently laid the foundation for a church there. As a result, the town's location shifted to this farm.
By 1864, Voortrekkers, on the banks of the Klein Olifants River, established the town and named it Nasareth. This name was not to last long, for by 1872 it was renamed Middelburg. The reason for this change was to reflect its midpoint location between the Transvaal capital, Pretoria, and the thriving gold mining town of Lydenburg.
The town's architecture also flourished over time. A prime example is the Dutch Reformed Church, constructed in 1890, which still stands today as a testament to Middelburg's historic past.
Tragic Chapters in Middelburg's Past. Middelburg's history is not without its dark periods. During the tumultuous times of the Second Boer War, the British erected a substantial concentration camp in Middelburg. This camp stands as a grim reminder of the hardships and losses faced by the Boers. A staggering 1,381 women and children tragically lost their lives in this camp. Today, a Memorial Museum stands adjacent to their graves, preserving the memory of these innocent souls and ensuring that their stories remain etched in the annals of Middelburg's history.
Founded as a strategic halfway point and then renamed for its central location, Middelburg has transformed significantly over the years. Yet, through all its metamorphoses, the town's rich heritage remains, with landmarks like the iconic ‘White Church' offering glimpses into its past. The town serves as a reminder of both the achievements and tragedies that shaped not only Middelburg but South Africa as a whole.