Blue Mine

The Blue Mine is located on a hill in Springbok. It's a place that is remembered in South Africa's mining history as the first South African copper. The mine, founded in 1852 by the mining company Phillips & King, was the beginning of the copper industry in the region. This discovery laid the foundation for the growth of Springbok, which changed from a small mining camp into a thriving town as copper mining expanded throughout Namaqualand.

The Blue Mine was actively operated until the late 1800s, and contributed greatly to the economic development of the region by providing employment and stimulating trade. The copper extraction from the mine fueled growth and benefited surrounding towns through increased infrastructure and trade.

Today, the remains of the Blue Mine still stand as a historic site. The mine is fenced off, and there is a short walking trail to it. The recently built lookout offers panoramic views of this historic mine. One can see the copper in the rocks, which had turned turquoise green since it came into contact with oxygen in the air.