This town, that derived its name from a strong artesian well on the farm Springfontein, used to be a very important railway junction between Gauteng and the Eastern Cape. After the regulations regarding rail and truck transport changed, the passage of trains through the town decreased drastically. This brought about an abrupt stop in its growth. Presently mixed farming and outdoor life are central to the lives of the people of Springfontein.
Agricultural activities range from intensive crop production and mixed farming in winter rainfall and high summer rainfall areas to cattle ranching in the bushveld and sheep farming in the arid regions. Maize is most widely grown, followed by wheat, oats, ...
