We celebrate one of Joburg’s oldest suburbs, and undoubtedly one of its most vibrant this Heritage Day. Troyeville is the only township in Johannesburg started by Hollanders, but today is a microcosm of our cosmopolitan city. Its architectural fabric encompasses the late Victorian, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, and its situation on a hill facing the skyscrapers of Hillbrow makes it one of Joburg’s most picturesque neighbourhoods.
The imposing mansion on the corner of Pretoria and Clarence Streets, Troyeville House, is visible from as far as Yeoville. The steep twin gables and use of stone, contrasting with white decorative finishes on the corners and around the windows and doors, lends it an impressive dignity. Home to the Master of the High Court in 1905 it certainly has a powerful presence. In 1925 it was purchased by the Salvation Army, and was for many years used as a training centre.
Today Troyeville House is a vibrant space for events and exhibitions, farming and meditation. Troyeville House will be hosting us for a spectacular tea, and then we will delve into the history of this house and explore its impressive and elegant spaces.
Troyeville House
Thereafter we will explore the surrounding neighbourhood, including the art deco Beryl Court, the house of activist David Webster, Gandhi’s residence in the suburb, and one of the most important examples of Art Nouveau architecture in Johannesburg.
- GUIDES: Brett McDougall and David Fleminger
- TIME: 14h00
- MEET AT: Troyeville House - the corner of Pretoria and Clarence Streets, Troyeville
- COST: R250 for members and R350 for non-members, which includes tea
- MAXIMUM NO: 40
- DURATION: Approximately 3 hours
- BOOK: mail@joburgheritage.co.za
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