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Short Version

Strubensvalley and Little Falls, suburbs in Roodepoort, share an intriguing history intertwining natural
beauty, gold mining, and urban development. Named after Fred and Harry Struben, gold prospectors,
Strubensvalley was developed into the first township by Mondorp Eiendomme in the early 1980s. Little
Falls emerged from land acquired by Gencor Properties, later expanded by JCI Properties. Despite delays
from land disputes, connectivity improved with Cascades Road in the late 1990s. Once a distant
waterfall, Little Falls is now part of Johannesburg's residential landscape, boasting unique attractions like
the country's only Epiphyllum Nursery. Notable features include Walter Sisulu Gardens, Florida Lake, and
the historic Old Gaol and Warder’s House, reflecting the area's transition from gold mines to green
spaces, shaping Johannesburg’s landscape.

Longer version
Strubensvalley and Little Falls are two adjacent suburbs located in Roodepoort, a city situated on the
West Rand of Gauteng Province, South Africa. These suburbs have a rich history dating back to the late
19th century, characterized by the discovery of gold in the region and subsequent urban development.

Strubensvalley is named after Fred and Harry Struben, who were early gold prospectors in the area
before the major gold discovery in nearby Johannesburg in 1886. Despite their efforts, the gold content
in their find was reportedly low, leading to limited profitability. However, the area eventually saw
development into the first township in the early 1980s by Mondorp Eiendomme, with a shopping center
established in 1985.

Little Falls, on the other hand, emerged from land acquired by Gencor Properties from a flower farmer
on the West Rand in the mid-1980s. The suburb's name derives from the nearby Little Falls Pleasure
Resort. Development in Little Falls continued with JCI Properties purchasing land between Little Falls and
Strubensvalley, leading to the creation of Little Falls Ext. 2, known as The Lakes, after the establishment
of a lake and park area.

Both Strubensvalley and Little Falls experienced challenges in development, including delays due to land
ownership disputes. However, by the late 1990s, connectivity between the two areas improved with the
development of Cascades Road, facilitating easier access and integration.

Today, these suburbs have transformed into thriving residential areas within the greater Johannesburg
metropolitan area. They offer various amenities and attractions, including parks, recreational facilities,
and historical sites, contributing to the vibrant and diverse landscape of Roodepoort.

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