Old Chinatown and beyond

Joburg’s original Chinatown at the bottom of Commissioner Street dates back to the early 1900s when thousands of Chinese labourers were brought over to work on the mines. Although many left a few years later, the community endured and flourished. So much so that in 1940, the Transvaal Chinese United Club commissioned avant-garde architect, WB Pabst, to build a magnificent block of flats for residents and visitors.

Although now superseded by ‘new’ Chinatown in Cyrildene, this area still holds the memories of its original Chinese pioneers. Take a walk with your guide Eugenie Drakes and find out more about this multi-layered community.

All Heritage Weekend tours depart from Holy Family College in Parktown. As part of our HW celebrations, set some time aside to peruse our extensive book, print and map sale at HFC and the book room at Northwards. And don’t forget to grab a bite at the food stand.