Say what? Interesting facts about Boksburg you never knew

With the discovery of gold in 1887, Boksburg transformed from a humble farming community to a mining town. Flash forward to the present and it's now one of the largest cities on the East Rand. 

If you're looking for an exciting historical journey, you'll strike gold here. Boksburg is filled with surprising, funny and fascinating facts. 

1. Child checkmate

A record-setting chess exhibition was held in Boksburg. Four-time world champion, Hikaru Nakamura, played 101 games simultaneously. He was bested by two young South Africans.

2. Knockout talent

Boksburg has a strong boxing culture. The area has been home to boxers Mike 'The Tank' Schutte, Gerrie 'Boksburg Bomber' Coetzee and Willie Lock, the famed boxing trainer.

3. Wheelie cool

Love cycling? Head to Boksburg Stadium. Last year saw the construction of a 7.8 km mountain bike park. The park gives the community the chance to practise and compete.  

4. Rock on!

In 2013, Boksburg Barnyard hosted its first-ever alternative rock show. It paid tribute to the biggest names in music like Depeche Mode, My Chemical Romance and  Radiohead.

5. Mzansi Mint

Mint, the first South African-built smartphone and tablets, are manufactured in Boksburg. The company employs between 200 and 300 staff - mainly Bokburg women.

6. Local lake

Boksburg's popular lake almost never happened. After it was built, it stood empty for two years. A heavy rain one night changed everything. Boksburgers awoke to find it had filled up! 

7. Notable name

Boksburg was named after Willem Eduard Bok. This Dutch-born South African Boer politician was the first State Secretary of the then South African Republic. 

8. Cricket legend

Boksburg-born Norman Gordon represented South Africa in five Test matches in the 1938-39 season. He was celebrated for his tireless, accurate and fast swing bowling. 

9. Celebrity crush

Boksburg can pave your way to fame. The area has seen the rise of anti-apartheid activist actress, Angelique Rockas, acclaimed comedian, Eric Jansen and soapie star, Lerato Marabe. 

10. Art smart

Director, Jamie Uys, was born in Boksburg. His most famous film, The Gods Must Be Crazy, was the world's biggest non-US box office hit during its release. 

11. Shopaholics only

Boksburg gives you an unsurpassed retail experience. To date, the area has 16 shopping centres including East Rand Mall, East Point, Value Mall and Towers. 

12. Able author

Boksburg's Edyth Bulbring is best known for her young adult novels including Melly, Fatty and Me. In 2012, it earned her the Percy Fitzpatrick Prize for Youth Literature. 

13. Science marvel

Glenda Gray was born in Boksburg. She is a respected physician and scientist specialising in the care of children and in HIV medicine. For her research, she was awarded the Order of Mapungubwe. 

14. Medical attention

Day hospital, Advanced East Rand, opened its doors last year. It gives locals access to more efficient and affordable surgeries for same-day surgical procedures. 

15. Kid friendly

Ster-Kinekor launched its first children's cinema in Boksburg. The space has multi-coloured seating, bright curtains and a tailored play station.

16. Festival fun

The people of Boksburg know how to have a good time. The city's celebrations include the Spring Fiesta, the East Rand Gin Festival and the International Marimba and Steelpan Festival. 

17. Thrill seeker

Wild Waters Boksburg is all about sunshine, splashing and water slides. The waterpark boasts nine water attractions including raging rapids, a wave pool and a super-tube slide.

18. Freshly baked

George's Bread & Co. opened in Boksburg this year. George Moustakis is part of the family of bakers who run Croydon Bakery, arguably the most well-renowned bakery in Gauteng. 

19. Holy space

St John's Presbyterian Church celebrates its 130-year anniversary this year. The church started with only 30 people attending the first service - the town's first mayor, Benjamin Owen Jones, being one of the most prominent members. 

You can't deny the appeal of Boksburg. It's an area rich in experiences. If you're looking to make your move, you have a team ready to help. At Century 21, we provide a service that lives up to our SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.™ ideals. Browse our Boksburg listings and get in touch today.