HISTORY
In days gone by, the respected Snowflake building bore the name "Horsfall's Mill," its origins tracing over a century. The Horsfall's Milling Company, established in 1921, initially operated as a steam-powered mill under the diligent management of William Hinchliff Horsfall, a skilled milling engineer.
At the time, it stood as Potchefstroom's tallest building, second only to the neighbouring Silo towers, marking the region's maiden venture into large-scale industrial pursuits. When William Horsfall passed away in February 1939, the South African Milling Company assumed ownership. However, milling activities were halted in the 1970s when the company erected a more expansive mill in Klerksdorp, relegating the old mill to a mere warehouse and distribution centre.
Subsequently, Premier Milling took the reins from the South African Milling Company utilizing this facility as the distribution point for their food products from Vereeniging, including their renowned flagship produce, Snowflake wheat flour. Today, the Snowflake flour emblem still adorns the roof, endearing locals to dub the structure as "The Snowflake."
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PRESENT OWNER
After Premier Milling ceased using the building for distribution, they sold it in 1997 to its present owner, Albert Bothma.
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THE BREWERY
Albert, an enterprising brewer, initially transformed the premises into a large-scale brewery, distillery, and packaging plant under the banner of the Bourbon Street Brewing Company Pty (Ltd). This company brewed and distributed beer to 25 depots spanning four provinces.
Regrettably, this thriving brewing enterprise was short-lived, as it fell victim to organized crime. Constant hijackings of the 20 distribution vehicles and armed robberies prompted Albert to discontinue brewing activities.
HUB OF CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
Subsequently, he sought permission from the local municipality to repurpose the industrial building for commercial use, family entertainment, and educational pursuits.
Picture of the mill taken ca. 1950. Photo: Potchefstroom Museum