Historic 150-year-old well discovered in Bo-Kaap

RESIDENTS of the Bo-Kaap are thrilled at the discovery of a stone well, which is possibly more than 150 years old, and have asked for it to be preserved and tested as a possible modern supply of spring water.

- GENEVIEVE SERRA

Mayor member for Economic Growth, James Vos, yesterday confirmed the stone well was discovered along the Spolander House, during the construction and upgrade of the Bo-Kaap Market.

Spolander House, on the corner of Yusuf Drive and Pentz Street, is a national heritage site and all land associated with the house (on which the well was found) is protected as a provincial heritage site.

Upon discovering the well, City officials instructed the contractor to immediately cease work.

On confirmation that the well was indeed archaeological, officials from Heritage Western Cape were notified.

Following careful inspection, the City’s Heritage officials worked with the construction crew to secure the well and surrounding area and allow development to continue, said Vos.

The City said a public participation process is now under way concerning the future redevelopment of the space.

“To preserve the well for future generations, the City is engaging with the Bo-Kaap community and other stakeholders through registered interested and affected parties to guide its protection and give input to the future redevelopment of this space,” the City said.