Diggers' Republic proclaimed at Klipdrift (1870)

In 1870, diamond miners at Klipdrift established a 'Diggers' Republic' with Stafford Parker as president. The site, known as Klipdrift, was the location of the first major diamond rush on the South African Diamond Fields. The area was briefly known as the Klipdrift Diggers' Republic before colonial rule was extended.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Klipdrift, situated on the north bank of the Vaal River, was initially known as Klip Drift. In 1870, it became the site of the first major diamond rush on the South African Diamond Fields. The surrounding area was briefly known as the 'Klipdrift Diggers' Republic' before colonial rule was extended there.

Proclamation. The 'Diggers' Republic' was proclaimed at Klipdrift by diamond miners. Stafford Parker served as the president of this entity. The town was renamed Parkerton in honor of Stafford Parker before colonial rule was extended to the area.

Legacy. The area was briefly known as the Klipdrift Diggers' Republic. The town was renamed Parkerton in honor of Stafford Parker. Later, it became one of the main towns in the Crown Colony of Griqualand West and was renamed Barkly West.

People involved

Sources

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