The marketing gurus of Propertuity have recently rebranded the neighbourhood bounded by Marshall Street in the south and the railway track in the north Maboneng, “Place of Light”. But before the coffee shops, artisanal bakeries and rooftop bars, this precinct of mainly New Doornfontein had a vitality and historical richness unequalled in the city.

Under the expert guidance of Alkis Doucakis, who for many years has exhaustively researched the area, we explore the city’s earliest water sources, a unique industrial heritage, places of worship, and the influence of waves of migration.

What lies behind the veneer of rapid gentrification in the area will surprise many – Ball’s Rickshaw Hire, Reverend Goodenough and the American Zulu Church, and the “black spot” of the Molefe, Makapan, Mvuyana, Magonyane, Brown and Rooi yards.

Our tour explores the historical fabric of New Doornfontein, but also celebrates the new, including a visit to Ghanaian architect David Adjaye’s Hallmark House.

Email Eira to book - mail@joburgheritage.co.za

GUIDES: Alkis Doucakis and Brett McDougall

PARK: On the street at the intersection of Beacon and Staib Streets

TIME: 14h00

DURATION: 3 hours

COST:  R90.00 for members and R150.00 for non-members

MAXIMUM No: 60