Volksrust: Memorial Sites and Liberation History

Several places in Volksrust recall different historical contexts: at Voortrekker Square, in a park north of the town, and as part of South Africa’s liberation history. If you’re looking for a hotel in Volksrust, your interests may guide your choice: would you mainly like to explore the memorial sites at the square, put the history of the liberation struggle in context, or also consider leisure activities? The sites and the regional route offer different historical perspectives: individual memorials sit alongside a regional view of liberation history.

Memorial Sites at Voortrekker Square

Volksrust’s market square was renamed Voortrekker Square in 1938. At the northeastern end of the square, the Wall of Remembrance commemorates the people who died in the British concentration camp. A memorial statue and a Wall of Remembrance in Volksrust Town Square commemorate the Boer women and children who died in the Volksrust concentration camp. The name change and dedications provide different points of reference for the square’s history: the year 1938 marks a change to the place name, while the memorials remember people who died.

Other Historic Memorial Sites

The 1881 War Memorial is located at the northeastern corner of Voortrekker Square. North of Volksrust, a cross-shaped monument stands in a park: the British Soldiers Memorial. It honors British soldiers who died in battles in the areas around Volksrust and Amersfoort. The two memorial sites thus differ in their locations and descriptions: one memorial is at the corner of the square, while the other is in a park north of the town.

Volksrust and Liberation History

Volksrust is one of the six towns named in the Mpumalanga Liberation Heritage Route. The Mpumalanga Tourism and Parks Agency counts the town among six that were extensively involved in the anti-apartheid liberation struggle. The route is intended primarily to guide local and international tourists to various heritage destinations connected with South Africa’s liberation history. To put this in context, consider the scale: the memorial sites provide specific points of reference in Volksrust, while the route frames liberation heritage as a regional theme.

Mahatma Gandhi, his wife Kasturba, and other Indian protesters were repeatedly arrested in Volksrust while marching peacefully against the Black Act and the Immigration Law. Alongside the remembrance of those who died in the concentration camp, this brings into view a history of peaceful protests and repeated arrests. Gandhi’s former prison cell was converted into a classroom where inmates are taught life skills for after their release. The cell is not open to the public. If this site is important to your plans, check the access restrictions in advance.

Other Interests When Planning Your Trip

Mahawane Country Resort is mentioned for fishing and water sports; its address is given as the N11 along the Amersfoort/Ermelo Road in Volksrust. If either activity is part of your plans, check in advance whether it will be available at the time of your trip.

More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Elukwatini, Balfour, Standerton, Piet Retief, Morgenzon, Chrissiesmeer, Ermelo, Bethal

For the broader travel overview: Gert Sibande.