Alabama, Klerksdorp

Township 6 km West of Klerksdorp in the North West. It is said to take its name indirectly from the State in South-East America. Named after, the Confederate Raider, CSS Alabama, which was a War Vessel built, in 1862. The Confederate States Navy commissioned the building of this vessel at Birkenhead, on the River Mersey, opposite Liverpool in England. 

Alabama, which was too serve as a successful commerce raider, attacking merchant and naval ships over the course of her two-year career, during which she never docked at a Southern Port. She was sunk in June 1864, by USS Kearsarge at the Battle of Cherbourg outside the Port of Cherbourg, France. It had an American captain and British crew and they arrived at Saldanha Bay on the 28 July 1863 and captured the Northern Vessel, 'Sea Bride'. Which was stationed outside Table Bay, on 5 August. The Alabama returned to the Cape in March 1864 and inspired the Cape Malay folk song: 'Daar kom die Alabama'!

Since the discovery of gold in 1884, saw thousands of prospectors flock to Klerksdorp. Today, Klerksdorp is the centre for a large mining and agricultural economy and boasts the second largest grain co-operative, in the World. Attractions include: Goudkoppie (the old mining shafts dating back to the 18th century), Klerksdorp Mines, Ou Dorp Hiking Trail. The Railway Station and Old Flag Room which was opened by President Paul Kruger when the railway-line from Krugersdorp reached the Town in 1897 - Klerksdorps first National Monument. Alabama is located in Dr Kenneth Kaunda District Municipality, North-West, South Africa