In South Africa's North West province, Koster emerged with the opening of the railway to Mafikeng in 1910. Initially a railway siding on Bastiaan Hendricus Koster's farm Kleinfontein, the area soon adopted his name. The strategic positioning along the railway line catalyzed its growth from a humble siding to a village in 1913, reflecting the impact of transportation networks on regional development.
By 1930, Koster evolved into a municipality, with a town council established in January 1931. This transition marked its growth from a functional railway point to an administratively independent entity, showcasing the town's expanding role in the region.
In 1970, Koster witnessed a defining moment in its history. On November 11th, the town became the epicenter of one of South Africa's last major diamond rushes. This event drew 167 prospectors, each eager to claim a piece of the promising land. This rush not only underscored the region's rich mineral resources but also highlighted the enduring fascination with diamond exploration in South Africa, a country with a storied history in precious stone mining.
Today, Koster stands as a testament to its past, encapsulating the transformative effects of transportation and mineral discovery in South Africa. Its journey from a railway siding to a municipality mirrors broader historical dynamics, making it a noteworthy chapter in the country's development.