GeographyThe Free State town of Winburg is close to the junction of the N1 and N5 national roads and is about 105km northeast of Bloemfontein.History The town has its origins in the migration of the Voortrekkers and was founded in 1841 on the farm Waaifontein. Although the origin of the name is disputed, most believe that Winburg was named in honour of the Voortrekker victory over Mzilikhazi's Ndebele on 17 January 1837. It became the capital of the unofficial Boer state, but by the time it had become a municipality in 1872, Bloemfontein had taken over as capital city. Today Winburg is a mixed farming town and important railway link.Arts and Culture Winburg has a rich historical and cultural heritage and is home to many historical buildings and monuments. Some of these buildings include the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1917, the Fords Hotel whose dining hall was used by the Voortrekkers and the Voortrekker Monument. In the grounds of the monument visitors can peruse the MT Steyn Museum. It was originally the home of former president Steyn before being converted into the museum. At the beautifully landscaped and manicured Garden of Remembrance the Voortrekkers are commemorated. The stone huts near the town are a gentle reminder of the culture that existed around these parts long before the Voortrekkers arrived.ScienceThe Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is north down the N1 towards Ventersburg.Did You KnowThe town of Winburg is the oldest town in the Free State. |
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