Explore Potchefstroom in South Africa's North West Province

The name is derived from the Dutch word "potscherf" (meaning broken pot) due to the soil cracks that appear in the Mooi River Valley during periods of drought. Potchefstroom, also known as "Potch," "as it is known to the locals, is a large academic town. North-West University, formerly known as Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education, is located in Potchefstroom. In addition, it is home to five postsecondary institutions and thirty schools. There is a large farming population, the country's largest chalk factory, and one of the country's largest organ factories. The distance between Potchefstroom and Johannesburg via car is 120 kilometers. Driving time between Potchefstroom and Johannesburg is roughly 1 hour and 32 minutes.

The first town north of the Vaal River, Potchefstroom has a rich history that includes the largest oak tree avenue in the southern hemisphere and numerous national monuments, including the old police station building, the Heimat Building: This structure represents an important milestone in the development of the Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education. This neo-Cape Dutch structure known as Heimat, designed by Gerard Moerdijk and completed in 1927 as a student dormitory, was the first permanent structure to be constructed on the University campus. It is worthwhile to visit the Magistrate's Office, the old Gunpowder House, and various churches. Together with the Krugersdorp City Hall, the Edwardian City Hall is the oldest surviving city hall north of the Vaal River. The President Pretorius Museum is located at the intersection of 'Esselen' and 'Van der Hoff' Streets in Potchefstroom. It is believed that President Marthinus Wessel Pretorius constructed the Museum in 1868, as it is a typical old Cape-style residence. In addition to the house, he likely constructed a stable, coach house, and blacksmith shop. President Pretorius was the first president of the Republic of South Africa, and he founded Pretoria. The President Pretorius Museum chronicles the distinctive urban Boer culture. This culture has diminished over the generations, but it remains a significant component of South African identity. The Museum of President Pretorius has been designated as a national monument.

The Prozesky Bird Refuge "The Buffelsvlei Wild Animal Park, which is home to 200 different bird species, is well worth a visit, and a monthly art market in the City Council gardens offers interesting purchases. The university-affiliated Sanlam Auditorium in Potchefstroom serves both the city and its surrounding communities with high-quality theater.

Article Courtesy of www.sahistory.org.za/place/potchefstroom