Archistori

Aka: V.O.C. Kruithuis / Powder Magazine Built: 1777 Locality:  Blom Rd, Die Braak, Stellenbosch. View from east. Image source: Archistori The Kruithuis is one of the most unique buildings of Die Braak and Stellenbosch, and it stands on a small, triangular piece of land located as an extension of Mark Road between the Rhenish Complex and Het Burgerhuis. Very soon after the establishment of Stellenbosch, a form of civic guard or infantry was formed using local citizens. Every year they had to travel down to Cape Town to be trained. As early as 1686, the request arose to hold the training sessions on their own grounds, namely on Die Braak, and to establish an accompanying arsenal there. By the late 18th century, the Stellenbosch burgher militia ( bijeenwoners ) needed a secure, centralized location to store ammunition, gunpowder, and weapons for defense against potential conflicts. It was not until the second half of the eighteenth century that permission was obtained. The Governor o...