Founded by Major H. Douglas Warden in 1846 as a fort and residency, it became the seat of the British-administered Orange River Sovereignty (1848–54) and of the Orange Free State (an independent Boer republic formed in 1854). The failure of the Bloemfontein Conference (May–June 1899) resulted in the outbreak of the South African War (1899–1902). In the 20th century the city became a geographic hub of South Africa’s transportation (particularly, railroad) systems. The area’s economic development was spurred after 1948 by exploitation of the Free State goldfields, lying 100 miles (160 km) northeast, and after 1962 by the Orange River multipurpose (irrigation and power) project.  The city is also the birth place of the oldest liberation movement in Africa, the ANC, found in Bloemfontein on the 8th of January 1912.

Its name means “fountain of flowers” and it is not surprising because, in the heart of the rugged Free State Province, it is abundant in colourful rose bushes. In fact, there are more than 4 000 rose bushes planted in the gardens of Kings Park, not counting the many gorgeous blooms in gardens and along streets around the city. This is complemented by the fact that, although a big centre, Bloemfontein is relatively quiet, with a distinct lack of the usual hustle and bustle of the metropolis.

Thanks to the rich history of this part of South Africa, there are beautiful historical buildings throughout the city centre. These flank the streets and showcase the classic architecture of yesteryear in graceful nostalgia. Museums dot the suburbs as a testimony to times past. They are filled to the brim with keepsakes, relics and memorabilia that tells fascinating tales. For more information on Bloemfontein, click here.

The city is also the home of game reserve and park run venue, Naval Hill.  Naval Hill is an odd name for a hill in the center of South Africa without a dockyard or sea in sight. It got it’s name from the two Naval Guns that were on the hill by the British during the Anglo-Boer war.

Contrary to popular belief, the two naval guns are no longer on Naval Hill. The Naval Brigade took the canons with them after the Anglo-Boer war ended. The only visible evidence of Naval Hill’s war history is a White Horse on the eastern hillside. The White Horse was an important landmark for soldiers during the war.