Nestled in the verdant belt of irrigated land surrounding the northward-flowing Orange River, on its journey through the Kalahari to the Namibian border and Namaqualand's Richtersveld area, lies the quaint village of Askham. This Northern Cape settlement is not just a mere dot on the map but a repository of a rich, multifaceted history.
The roots of Askham trace back to a school boarding house established in 1931, around which the village gradually developed. This boarding house, along with the Dutch Reformed Church of Askham, became the lifeblood of the settlement, serving not just the local community but the entire expanse of the Kalahari region. The church, in particular, stands as a beacon of faith and community spirit, drawing people from far and wide.
The name 'Askham' was bestowed upon the village by a Scottish land surveyor, Roger Jackson, who, in 1919, was tasked with surveying farms along the Kuruman River. The origins of this name are shrouded in mystery. Some say Jackson named it after a town on the Irish coast, while others believe the name stemmed from a farmer's casual remark: "Ask him".
Askham's historical significance is further marked by its police station, built in the same year as the boarding house. This station was not just a law enforcement hub but also a breeding ground for camels used in police patrols across the vast stretches of the Kalahari. At its peak, the station was home to over 400 camels, supplying these hardy beasts to various outposts in Rietfontein, Obobogorag, Kuruman, Van Zylsrus, Deben, and Olifantshoek, thus playing a pivotal role in maintaining law and order in the region.
The San, Koranna, and Nama tribes have called this region home for centuries, with their rich cultural heritage deeply interwoven into the fabric of Askham. Their presence is a living testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the indigenous communities of Southern Africa.
Askham is more than just a stopover on the way to larger, more renowned destinations. It is a testament to the enduring human spirit, and a bridge connecting the past to the present. In its streets, buildings, and people, the history of the Northern Cape comes alive, offering a unique and enriching experience to all who visit this remarkable village.