Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - Pretoria
Fort Daspoortrand, also known as Wesfort Fort, is one of the four historic forts built in Pretoria in the late 19th century during the South African Republic (ZAR) under the leadership of President Paul Kruger. Constructed between 1896 and 1898, these forts were part of a defense system meant to protect the capital, Pretoria, from potential British invasion in the tense years leading up to the Second Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902).
Fort Daspoortrand was strategically positioned on Daspoortrand Hill, west of Pretoria, offering a commanding view of the surrounding area. Its primary purpose was to guard the western approach to the city and ensure early detection of any advancing forces. The design and construction were handled by a German engineer, Otto Albert Adolph von Dewitz, and the fort followed a utilitarian, military-style architecture with thick stone walls and reinforced structures.
However, despite its strategic importance, Fort Daspoortrand, like the other forts (Schanskop, Klapperkop, and Wonderboompoort), never saw active combat during the Anglo-Boer War. The war was marked by guerrilla tactics, and the forts were largely bypassed by British forces when they occupied Pretoria in 1900. As a result, these massive fortifications were rendered obsolete almost immediately after their construction.
After the war, Fort Daspoortrand was no longer needed for military purposes and gradually fell into disuse. It later became part of Wesfort, a settlement that housed a leprosy hospital during the mid-20th century. The site remained associated with the hospital for many years, contributing to its local name "Wesfort."
Today, Fort Daspoortrand stands as a testament to the turbulent history of the South African Republic and its attempts to defend itself against British imperial ambitions. Though partially in ruins, it is considered a historical monument and an example of late 19th-century military architecture in South Africa. The fort serves as a reminder of the Boer Republic's determination to protect its sovereignty during a period of colonial tension.
The fort is no longer in active use and is not widely developed as a tourist destination. However, it remains an intriguing historical site for those interested in South Africa's military and colonial history. Efforts have been made over the years to preserve it as part of Pretoria's heritage.
Contact Details: There are no formal contact details for Fort Daspoortrand, but inquiries about visiting or learning more can often be directed to:
City of Tshwane Municipality Heritage Department: +27 12 358 1430
Pretoria Tourism Information: +27 12 358 1225
Location: -25.733012733412963, 28.077047523889405
Accommodation Near Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - Pretoria
Fires Mountain Lodge
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Hartbeespoort
16km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaFires Mountain Lodge provides self catering chalet accommodation in Hartbeespoort in the North West province. (Sleeps either 2,4 or 8 adults and children). Situated on the slopes of the Waterberg mountain range at Saartjiesnek pass... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Village in Hatfield
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hatfield
16.6km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaThe Village In Hatfield provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Hatfield, Pretoria / Tshwane. The Village in Hatfield is a delightful guesthouse offering a cluster of separate units, perfectly appointed for a comfortable stay in the heart of Pretoria. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bed & Breakfast in Hatfield
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Hatfield
16.7km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaBed and Breakfast in Hatfield - as the name suggests, provides bed and breakfast accommodation, but also self catering in Hatfield, Pretoria / Tshwane in the Gauteng province. We are close to the Pretoria CBD and bustling Hatfield is a 10min walk away. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Gratia
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Pretoria
17km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaGratia Cottage offers 2 self-catering cottages located in the suburb of Waverley in Pretoria/Tshwane. The sunny and spacious self catering cottages can sleep up to 6-7 guests and exudes a homely appeal. The kitchens are fully equipped... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Queensrest
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Pretoria
17.5km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaQueensrest provides self catering accommodation in Queenswood Pretoria in Gauteng. Centrally situated in the established suburb of Queenswood, just a short distance from the Pretoria CBD. 6 Self-catering units to choose from. (Units sleep 4 - 6 adults). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Swan-Lake Luxury Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Montana Park
17.6km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaSwan-Lake Luxury Guesthouse offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Montana Park in Pretoria, Gauteng. Montana Park is a quiet leafy northern suburb of Pretoria which offers easy access to the Pretoria CBD. Our bed and breakfast is set in a beautiful... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Ponciana Superior Guesthouse
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Hartbeespoort
18.2km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaPonciana Superior Guesthouse offers... superior bed and breakfast accommodation in Hartbeespoort in the North West Province. We are an AA Superior Qualified Assured exclusive luxury guesthouse on the top of the hill in Ifafi which gives us the most... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fralande
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Pretoria
18.8km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaFralande Lodge offers 2 self catering accommodation units in the Pretoria suburb of Waverley in Gauteng. (The units sleep 4 and 6). Overlooking a beautiful garden where one can find peace and tranquility. We have our guests best interest at heart... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Little Bushveld
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Bon Accord
18.8km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaLittle Bushveld offers self catering accommodation in Bon Accord near Pretoria North in Pretoria / Tshwane. We offer 6 chalets ranging from a 2 sleeper to 7 sleeper. These very private self catering chalets on a smallholding are ideal for a real "Slow-Lif …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Leopardsong Manor
Bed & Breakfast Accommodation in Centurion
18.9km from Fort Daspoortrant / Wesfort Fort - PretoriaLeopardsong Manor offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the Centurion Golf Estate in Centurion, Gauteng. Our bed and breakfast facility in Centurion Golf Estate has been noted for its stylish interior and spacious rooms overlooking one of the best... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
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