Paardekraal Monument

About Paardekraal Monument

The Paardekraal Monument is a historic landmark in Krugersdorp, marking the site where Boer leaders and thousands of followers gathered in December 1880. This gathering, and the symbolic vow taken there, led directly to the First Boer War and the restoration of independence for the South African Republic (ZAR). The Vow (1880): Between 8 and 13 December 1880, approximately 6,000–10,000 Boers gathered to protest the British annexation of the Transvaal. They pledged to regain their independence, a promise sealed by each man placing a stone on a growing pile, or cairn. The Monument (1890): Designed by State Architect Sytze Wierda, the current 60-foot white stone monument was built to enclose and protect the original stone cairn. It was officially unveiled by President Paul Kruger on 16 December 1891.