Kofifi, Triomf, Little Harlem – The Many Names of Sophiatown

Originally established in 1903 as one of the few ‘freehold’ suburbs in Joburg, by the 1950s Sophiatown was the stuff of legend - a cosmopolitan enclave filled with jazz, shebeens, and rambunctious characters. 

Sadly, this vibrant mixture of glamour and grime (as epitomised in the articles of Drum magazine) came to a crashing end with brutal forced removals under the Group Areas Act. But there are still glimpses of old Sophiatown to be seen - if you know where to look.

So, join your guides Karen Curry and Boitumelo Moletsane for a memorable journey through the many facets of this creative and intellectual centre. Highlights include visits to some of the few remaining buildings from the ‘Sophiatown Renaissance’ as well as wonderful views from the edge of the ridge.

The meeting place is outside the Dr AB Xuma House Museum on Toby Street and, due to the distances involved, will include some walking and some self-drive sections. We advise that friends and family share cars. The price of the tour includes admission and donations.