Troyeville is one of our city’s oldest suburbs, and is the only township in Johannesburg started by Hollanders. Its architectural fabric encompasses the late Victorian, Edwardian and art deco, and its situation on a hill facing the skyscrapers of Hillbrow makes it one of Joburg’s most picturesque neighbourhoods. 

We start in Beelaerts Street, and explore the fascinating surrounding neighbourhood. The imposing mansion on the corner of Pretoria and Clarence Streets in Troyeville, Clarence 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. We delve into it history of rather special ladies – Gwen Gill and Jennifer Ferguson - and you will love exploring from basement to the attic rooms, all in elegant state thanks to the new owners from Hollard.

The highlight of the tour will be the unveiling of blue plaques at three Johannesburg landmarks: Johannesburg’s oldest Dutch Reformed Church, the delightful Art Deco building, Beryl Court, and finally Clarence House.

Email mail@joburgheritage.co.za to book.

GUIDES: Flo Bird and Clare Eisenstein
TIME: 14h00
MEET AT: The corner of Pretoria and Clarence Streets, Troyeville
COST: R90 for members and R150 for non-members 
DURATION: Approximately 3 hours
MAXIMUM No: 60
SAIAT CPD Points: 0.2 for Category 1