Middelburg, Mpumalanga facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Middelburg
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The Dutch Reformed Church
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 Middelburg
Location in Mpumalanga
Middelburg
Location in South Africa
Middelburg
Location in Africa
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| Country | South Africa |
| Province | Mpumalanga |
| District | Nkangala |
| Municipality | Steve Tshwete |
| Established | 1864 |
| Area | |
| • Total | 117.40 km2 (45.33 sq mi) |
| Elevation | 1,490 m (4,890 ft) |
| Population
(2011)
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| • Total | 87,348 |
| • Density | 744.02/km2 (1,927.00/sq mi) |
| Racial makeup (2011) | |
| • Black African | 41.6% |
| • Coloured | 5.6% |
| • Indian/Asian | 3.8% |
| • White | 48.5% |
| • Other | 0.5% |
| First languages (2011) | |
| • Afrikaans | 50.3% |
| • Zulu | 12.4% |
| • English | 11.1% |
| • Northern Sotho | 7.6% |
| • Other | 18.6% |
| Time zone | UTC+2 (SAST) |
| Postal code (street) |
1050
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| PO box |
1055
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Middelburg is a busy town in South Africa, located in the Mpumalanga province. It's known for its farms and factories.
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Contents
History of Middelburg
Middelburg started in 1860 as a stop for travelers between Lydenburg and Pretoria. It was created by a small republic that later joined with the South African Republic. The town was first planned on two farms, Klipfontein and Keerom. But when the Dutch Reformed Church built a church nearby on Sterkfontein farm, the town moved to that spot.
It was officially founded in 1864 by the Voortrekkers (early Dutch settlers) near the Klein Olifants River. It was first called Nasareth. In 1872, its name changed to Middelburg. This name shows its location, as it's in the middle of the Transvaal capital, Pretoria, and the gold mining town of Lydenburg. The Dutch Reformed church, also known as "Die Witkerk" (The White Church), was built in 1890.
During the Second Boer War, the British built a large camp in Middelburg. A museum and a memorial were later built there. They honor the 1,381 women and children who died in the camp.
Exploring Middelburg's Geography
Middelburg has several different neighborhoods, each with its own feel.
Middelburg's Communities
- Aerorand: This is the newest part of Middelburg.
- CBD: This is the central and most modern part of town.
- Groenkol: This area has many nicely updated homes.
- Dennesig: This neighborhood is named for the pine trees found there.
- Golfsig: An upscale area with views of the golf course.
- Clubville: A green, leafy area also overlooking the golf course.
- Industrial Area: Where many of the town's businesses and factories are located.
- Kanonkop: Means "Cannon Hill." It's named after the Anglo-Boer War. The site of the old camp graveyard is here.
- Mhluzi: This area was historically home to African residents.
- Mineralia: Named after the mineral deposits found in the region.
- Nasareth: This area was historically home to Coloured residents.
- Eastdene: This area was historically home to Indian residents.
- Rockdale: A residential area on the farm Rockdale.
- Hlalmnandi: Another residential area.
People and Culture in Middelburg
In the past, many people from the United Kingdom and Europe moved to Middelburg. They came in the 1950s, 60s, and 70s to find work in the growing industries. These families often received housing and help with education from companies.
Today, Middelburg is a diverse town. People speak mostly Afrikaans, but there are also many English speakers and different African populations. The town is working to improve services and infrastructure for all its residents.
The town is growing, with a population of about 278,000 in 2016. Experts think it could reach 500,000 by 2030. Middelburg has a large police force, a public hospital, a private hospital, a shopping mall, and several schools.
Religious Life in Middelburg
Middelburg has a strong Christian background. The oldest church, "Die Witkerk," is a Dutch Reformed Church. Many different churches are found in the town:
- Dutch Reformed (NG Kerk)
- Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk van Afrika
- AFM-AGS Apostolic Faith Mission
- Pentecostal Protestant Church
- Baptist
- Methodist
- African Methodist Episcopal Church
- Catholic
- Full Gospel Church
- Zion Christian Church
- Holy Trinity Anglican Church
- Independent Churches
- Evangelical Lutheran Church
- Presbyterian
- ECF (Eastdene Christian Fellowship)
- Shalom Christian Church
- Solid Ground Church
Churches often hold events like bazaars and markets to support the community. For example, "Die Lighuis Gemeente" hosts an annual art and craft market called The Expo. "Corpus Christi" is known for its "Kersmark" (Christmas Market). The church community is very involved in helping the town grow and improve.
Middelburg's Economy
Middelburg is home to important industries. Columbus Stainless, a large stainless steel factory, was built in 1965. Thos Begbie & Co, a company started in 1887, is also here. For many years, these factories and related businesses, like coal mining and transport, provided most of the jobs. However, other areas like farming have also become very important to the town's economy.
Fun Things to Do in Middelburg
Middelburg is a great place for visitors. It's close to the main road leading to the famous Kruger National Park. The town has a growing tourism industry.
Tourism and Attractions
Some popular spots include the Middelburg Dam, where an annual swimming event called the Middelburg Mile takes place. You can also visit the Botshabelo mission station museum and a Ndebele tourist village. There are also several hiking trails to explore.
In the town center, you'll find popular night spots and family restaurants. Middelburg Mall, located near the N4 highway, offers a wide range of shops and places to eat.
Sports and Recreation
Middelburg has a well-kept country club. It offers facilities for tennis, bowls, and a golf course. There are also swimming pools, a bar, a hotel, and dining rooms.
Kees Taljaard Park is mainly a rugby stadium. It also has fields for hockey. Many local festivals and events are held at this stadium throughout the year.
Important People from Middelburg
Middelburg has been home to several famous people:
- Wynand Claassen: A former captain of the South Africa national rugby union team.
- Happy Jele: A well-known footballer and long-serving captain for Orlando Pirates.
- Esther Mahlangu: A famous artist from the Ndebele nation. She is known for her large, colorful paintings inspired by her heritage.
- Vincent Mahlangu: An actor and singer.
- Gerhardus Pienaar: A javelin thrower.
- Nothando Vilakazi: A professional footballer who plays for the Spanish Primera División and the South Africa women's national football team.
