Jewel in the Crown - Mining on Main Street

Back in 1886, Main Street in Marshalltown was a dusty marketplace bustling with farmers selling produce from their wagons, as well as fortune seekers hoping to strike it lucky on the newly discovered gold field. 

Over the years, as the reef yielded its riches, Main Street became home to some of South Africa’s major mining companies, such as Anglo American and General Mining, as well as the powerful Chamber of Mines. 

Today, Main Street is partially pedestrianised and hosts a remarkable collection of gold-rush memorabilia, iconic sculptures, public art installations, old mining equipment, and several magnificent architectural achievements. 

So, join your guides Clare and Arjen van Zwieten as we take a step back in time to Joburg’s early days, filled with tales of pioneering personalities and the great mining houses they built. We have been given special permission to access Mayibuye House (the old Chamber of Mines Building) and to view the bronze panels inside the old Gencor Building.

Please wear good walking shoes, a hat and sunblock, and bring along some drinking water. This an inner-city tour and, while we haven’t had any incidents previously, we recommend leaving your valuables at home. 

The tour will begin at the Rand Club. No reserved parking is available so it is recommended that you use an Uber or equivalent. (Undercover parking at a neighbouring parking garage can be arranged via the Rand Club. Cost R50 per car. Please email [email protected].)

After the tour, you are welcome to stay on and enjoy a drink or meal in the sumptuous Rand Club main bar. Drinks and meals for your own account.