Hidden historical gems amidst coal excavation near Alexander Dam
Some of the historical artifacts discovered on the Paul Kruger farm along Alexander Dam will be making its way to the Springs Military Museum.
The saying ‘one man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ seems to be true for Tony da Cruz, the founder of the Springs Military Museum.
This comes after Da Cruz was driving along the bridge at Murray Park, near the Alexander Dam, a few weeks ago and witnessed men and women digging up coal.
Da Cruz approached the individuals to inform them about the historical value of household items they might find.
In search of coal, these individuals had already come across antiques and loads of old glassware.
Da Cruz saw the opportunity and did not hesitate to get involved.
With his eye on a future indoor museum, he negotiated with these men and women about the historical value of any household items they might find.
“After the impromptu meeting with them, they agreed to collect the antiques and old glass bottles they find while excavating for coal,” said Da Cruz.
“I explained to them who Kruger was and how important these treasures were to the history of Springs. We agreed I would buy these items at a fair price from them.
“In turn, they also can provide for their families.”
He bought the first batch of artifacts which among them were vessels, which he says were possibly from the Anglo-Boer War.
“I cleaned and restored the few I bought and will research the origins of these artefacts.”
Some items included a 1937 Coca-Cola bottle, a circa 1900 Goldberg and Zeffertt soda water bottle with its marble gas trap still intact, a Benoni Bear soda water bottle from the 1930s and a green Chandler’s Crown beer bottle.
The northern bank of the dam is the land where former President Paul Kruger had a holiday home back in the 1800s.
Da Cruz seems to have big plans for the Springs Military Museum and aims to portray these antiques in the upcoming indoor museum.
Da Cruz, passionate about history, is optimistic that some of Kruger’s historical vessels will come to light.
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