Nestled in the province of Mpumalanga, South Africa, lies the picturesque town of Wakkerstroom. Its history, like many towns in the region, is interwoven with tales of the Boer Wars, Voortrekkers, and significant shifts in culture and governance. Let's embark on a journey through the pages of its past.
Beginnings at the Ossewakop: Founded by the Voortrekkers in the 1850s, Wakkerstroom stands as the second oldest town in the province. These early settlers chose the base of Ossewakop for their establishment, laying the foundations of a settlement that would witness many significant moments in South African history.
Swart Dirk and the Founding of Uysenburg: Swart Dirk Uys, who arrived in the region in the 1850s, was the driving force behind the initial layout of the settlement on the farm Gryshoek. Armed with a 50-yard thong crafted from the hide of an eland he had hunted, Uys meticulously surveyed the area. He originally named the budding town Uysenburg, a namesake that would not last long. By 1859, at the proclamation of President Pretorius, the name was changed to Marthinus-Wesselstroom. The town also earned the nickname Wesselstroom during this period.
From Marthinus-Wesselstroom to Wakkerstroom: The 20th century brought another name change for the town. In 1904, the town's title transitioned to Wakkerstroom. This Afrikaans term, translating to "awake stream" or "lively stream", reflects the Zulu name for the nearby uThaka river.
Historical Monuments and H. Rider Haggard: Several structures in Wakkerstroom, including the courthouse, St. Mark's Church, and an old bridge spanning the river, have been recognized as national monuments. Further enriching its cultural landscape, the town was once the residence of famed author H. Rider Haggard. While living on Hoog Street, he penned his novel, "She: A History of Adventure".
Footprints of the First Boer War: The turbulent period of 1880–1881 during the First Boer War saw the occupation of Wakkerstroom by various British regiments, including the 58th (Rutlandshire) Regiment of Foot, the 80th Regiment of Foot (Staffordshire Volunteers), and the 1st King's Dragoon Guards. Evidence of their encampments still pepper the slopes of the Ossewakop and Voortrekkerkop passes.
Blockhouses and the Second Boer War: The legacy of the Second Boer War is marked by the construction of over 120 blockhouses between Volksrust, Wakkerstroom, and Piet Retief. The British erected these structures to safeguard their supply lines stretching from Durban.
The Legendary Swart Dirk: Beyond founding the town, Swart Dirk Uys left an indelible mark on its history. After surviving a musket explosion at the Battle of Italeni, which cost him his thumb, he lived to an impressive 96 years of age. His contributions weren’t just limited to town planning; he is celebrated for breeding the Drakensberg race of cattle. During the Transvaal War of Independence, Uys served alongside General Joubert and was a signatory to the Peace Treaty at O'Neill's cottage.
In conclusion, Wakkerstroom is not just a town; it’s a chronicle of perseverance, transformation, and historical significance. From its Voortrekker origins to its role in the Boer Wars, Wakkerstroom stands as a testament to South Africa's rich and multifaceted history.