SNOWFLAKE VENUE: POTCH’S HISTORIC GEM

Megan Grobler

@megan.gro_bler

 

Snowflake venue, formerly known as “Horsfall’s Mill”, located in Potchefstroom Central, is a historic building, with its origins dating back over a century. This makes it the first industrial operation in Potchefstroom. The building has had many purposes over the years and is still standing strong to this day.

Horsfall’s Milling Company was established in 1921 and originally operated as a steam-powered mill. William Hinchcliff Horsfall, the manager at the time, was a skilled milling engineer. Horsfall’s Milling was declared the tallest building in Potchefstroom, second only to the nearby Silos. 

Horsfall’s Mill continued operations under Horsfall’s management up until his passing in 1939, when the South African Milling Company assumed ownership. Thereafter, the building continued serving as a mill until a more expansive mill was erected in Klerksdorp, resulting in the building being used as a warehouse and distribution centre.  

Subsequently, Premier Milling picked up where South African Milling Company left off, utilising the facility as the point of distribution for their food products from Vereeniging, the most renowned amongst them being Snowflake wheat flour. 

In 2019, the local Heritage Foundation, Heritage Potchefstroom Erfenis, recognised the building’s historic significance and listed it as a building of historical value. As a tribute to this milestone, an information board was installed on Snowflake’s premises.

Today, Snowflake is a well-known cultural center, owned by Albert Bothma, used to host events, weddings, and dines. With steam-punk accents and a welcoming atmosphere, it is the ideal spot for Potchefstroom students and adults alike to attend exhibitions, meetings, and events.

Snowflake has become renowned for its expansive entertainment areas. They are frequently used for concerts, dines, weddings, markets, and other events. Some of the biggest events being Patria July, Spoegwolf shows, and the annual Boxing Night between Excelsior and Over-de-voor.

The recharge coffee shop and “Pizzamore” restaurant make for delightful coffee and cuisine while hosting meetings or doing some work. This area is cornered off, making for a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere.

The pool bar regularly accommodates pool clubs, professionals, and amateurs, with a bar and some music to keep them hydrated and happy. There are two separate pool areas with pool tables to accommodate large events or groups of people. 

A lesser-known gem that many may not be aware of is Snowflake’s art gallery.

Options for events include weddings, dining events, art exhibitions, workshops, team meetings, conferences, concerts, and recurring food and craft markets. Trading hours for these establishments are from Mondays to Saturdays.

Recently, the venue received the “Best Venue to Hire” award from Mooivaal Media. This formed part of the “Best of Potch” campaign and is yet another reason to consider Snowflake for future events.

A concert happening in the modern Snowflake (Source: Snowflake website)

Edited by Kyle Bauermeister