The relevant Official Gazette carries the following description of the fort in Grootfontein:'The military fort and administrative post was built in 1896 by Schutztruppe and the Native population. Extensions to the fort were made between 1900 and 1905. After 1915 the building was occupied by the military magistrate and thereafter used for educational purposes'.

Due to the colonization of Namibia, the German Protectorate established countrywide administrative bodies. In 1896 the northern distinct of the country was demarcated and Grootfontein became a part of Outjo administrative region. A year later, Grootfontein was declared a district in its own right and a year later the administration moved into the fort.

Over the next 10 years much repair works were done and in 1908 a complete restoration was completed. The fort consists of an administrative wing, living quarters and storerooms.

Under the custodianship of the Union of South Africa from 1915, the fort was used as by the military magistrate and in later years, the SWA administration used it as a school and a hostel.

A restoration committee was formed in the early 1970's and the Fort was restored as a museum. It is situated in Upingtonia Street in Grootfontein and was officially proclaimed a national monument on 21st March 1975.

Walvis Bay Accommodation