Steam tractors important relics from the past
Both of these steam tractors back all the way to the Anglo Boer War which lasted from 1899 to 1902.
Springs boasts a long and interesting history, and many landmarks of those bygone eras remain.
These range from steam tractors to artillery cannons.
Two of the most interesting objects are the two steam tractors located in President’s Park on Main Reef Road.
Both of these steam tractors date back to the Second Anglo Boer War that lasted from 1899 to 1902.
The 10-horsepower locomotive was made by Aveling and Porter in Worcestershire, England, and was brought to South Africa in 1899 and was used in the Springs mines.
After the war, they were used by various companies and municipalities until they ended up at the park.
Also read: Discover Springs’ history in Geduld graveyard
Over the years, the elements took its toll on these machines, rendering them rusted old hulks, far from the impressive and innovative machines they were back in the day.
In November, Tony da Cruz arranged a team to repaint the first steam engine located in the front of the park, and it looks good as new.
Da Cruz plans on bringing the second steam engine to the front of the park, where it can stand next to its twin in their former glory for all of Springs to see.
This will form part of his plan to create an Outdoor Heritage Museum that will include various historical landmarks from all over the East Rand.
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