Fort Klapperkop

credit: https://www.tshwane.gov.za/?page_id=4862

Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in Pretoria, Fort Klapperkop is a military fort that served as a crucial defense mechanism during the Second Anglo Boer War. Today, the museum located in the fort provides visitors with a unique portrayal of how soldiers lived during the war period from 1899-1902.

About the Museum

The museum situated inside Fort Klapperkop allows visitors to experience the living conditions of soldiers during the Second Anglo Boer War. The museum is a fascinating attraction to anyone interested in history and military strategy. The German-built fort features pentagonal reinforced walls with revolving artillery on the embankments, providing excellent frontal firing capabilities.

The fort’s walls were crenellated to make defense possible in case of an attack from any direction. The rooms, or casements, of the fort were reinforced by covering them with an embankment. Trenches and barbed-wire entanglements further reinforced the fort.

Visitors to the museum can also see various pieces of heavy artillery that were placed in the forts as armaments, including the well-known 155mm Creusot cannon (Long Tom) that was purchased specifically for the forts.

Interesting Facts

The fort is surrounded by a nature reserve, which allows visitors to see some grazing Wildebeest and Zebra’s, providing a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s wildlife.
Visitors can also visit the only tram left in Pretoria, a steam locomotive, which provides a glimpse into Pretoria’s transport history.
Additionally, the museum is located on one of the highest peaks in Pretoria, providing visitors with a breathtaking view of the city.

Physical Location

Conclusion

Fort Klapperkop is a fascinating destination and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in history and military strategy. The museum provides visitors with a unique opportunity to experience how soldiers lived during the Second Anglo Boer War. Visitors can also enjoy various other attractions such as seeing wildlife, visiting the only tram left in Pretoria, and enjoying the breathtaking view of the city.