Adam Kok House

About Adam Kok House

Philippolis is a small, quiet town that is secluded in the landscapes of the Free State Province. This area was inhabited by a group of people that hailed from the mixed relationships of the European sailors that settled in South Africa, and the indigenous Khoi-Khoi and Hottentot women of the land. The move to this area was under the leadership of Adam Kok III, who was a Griqua slave that had been released.

The Adam Kok House was the official dwelling place of this pioneer in the 1800’s and is believed to be the oldest surviving building in the little town. Included in this historical and cultural attraction are two naval cannons (which the colonial government gave to the Griqua folk in the 1840’s), some of the original Griqua graves, and the Transgariep Museum. This provides a great resource to learn more about the culture of the Griqua people and how it has shaped some modern South African peoples and societies.

For those visiting the Adam Kok House, there are also other things to do and see in Philippolis. There is a Farmers’ Market every Saturday morning, at which visitors can buy the best of homemade preserves, fruit, vegetables, art and even plants. Thanks to the gorgeous surroundings, those visiting Adam Kok House also have the opportunity to hike or walk around the town, or simply to relax with a cup of coffee and enjoy the surrounding scenery.