Umzimkhulu River Port (1893)

Umzimkhulu River Port (1893)

Oct 2024

Rossmin is a Limestone mine situated on a deposit near Port Shepstone known as the Marble delta. The delta is formed by the Umzimkhulu and Umzimkulwana rivers which flow through this deposit.

The river has played a signicant role in the development of Limestone mining in the area, largely due to the Umzimkhulu River Port. The port was established in the late 19th century to facilitate the transport of goods, including sugar, tea, coffee, and notably, limestone and marble.

In the early days, settlers recognized the potential of the region's natural resources but faced challenges with transportation. The river port became operational in 1893, and by 1898, the first dredger, the Sandpiper, was acquired to maintain the port. Limestone quarries were developed to support local industries, and the port played a crucial role in exporting these materials.

The port's infrastructure included the construction of training walls to manage the river's flow and improve navigability. Despite these efforts, the port's operations were often hampered by natural obstacles and flooding. Over time, as rail and road transport improved, the reliance on the river port diminished, leading to its eventual decline.

Sources:
• IOL - Crossing the 'home of all rivers' through the decades
• KZNPR - Umzimkulu River Mouth