The History of the Macks of Isipingo is rather interesting and goes back to the time when Durban was just beginning to prosper round about 1850 when the Byrne Settlers started arriving. To curtail repetitive entries I am abbreviating Gazley … Read More
I came across this wonderful site which covers the Durban Railway Network from its earliest days. The site is called Soul of a Railway and covers the whole South African Railway saga. I looked at the Natal Durban system and … Read More
I was quite surprised to see this one line entry in the Natal Mercury announcing the closure of what must be one of the iconic hotels on Durban’s beachfront. One would have thought that the imminent closure of the Beach … Read More
The “Cuban Hat” and its neighbour “The Nest” were two very popular drive in locales situated on the then Lower Marine Parade in Durban. They were especially popular in the late 50s / early 60s when own car transport became … Read More
Natalie Nel posted three pictures on FaceBook of the Colonial Mutual Life Building when it was being constructed. They looked like purposely taken photographs. I contacted Natalie and she agreed to send me copies so that I could post them … Read More
I know many Durbanites who now live overseas do visit this site and I suppose it is appropriate to let them know of developments in the once fine city centre. This article appeared in the Sunday Tribune this past Sunday … Read More
Commemorating the Arrival of the Byrne Settlers 1849. 12th May 2019 marked the 170th anniversary of the arrival in Durban of the vessel, Wanderer with the first boat load of Byrne Settlers. In 1849, 15 Byrne Settlers amongst 108 passengers … Read More
The Place on The Hill …. Entabeni Hospital 1930-1980. with acknowledgement to Marilyn Poole. Click on pictures to enlarge. One of the fascinations I have is looking at old postcards and photographs of buildings that once adorned what must have … Read More
I wonder how many picked up this Memoriam notice that appeared in The Mercury Friday 5th April 2019. Newspapers these days do not having the large sales that they used to enjoy, and on my part are only occasional purchases. … Read More
Alan Brooker 25/11/1942 – 26/3/2019. There is mention in the Cookie Look post on this site of Alan Brooker being the leader of a well known 1960’s Durban rock group called The Knights. Sadly on Saturday, I attended his funeral. … Read More