Strubenheim is a majestic historic mansion in Rosebank, Cape Town. It belonged to Harry Struben who, along with his brother Fred, played a crucial part in the story of the discovery of the largest goldfield on earth. Although they cannot claim to have discovered the Witwatersrand's main reef, it was their pioneering efforts on the Confidence Reef nearby that drew others to Langlaagte where the big discovery was made (click here for further details). Earlier this year mining historian Rod Kruger and Struben descendent Adam Struben visited Strubenheim. They managed to explore all the nooks and crannies of this historic gem including the rarely accessed main tower! We are very grateful that they decided to send us a few of their magnificent photographs. Text by Rod Kruger.
Rod Kruger and Adam Struben on top of the Strubenheim Tower
Strubenheim was the masterpiece built by Harry Struben when he made the big time! In size and luxury it compares with Downton Abby of BBC series fame, with huge rooms, magnificent fireplaces, imposing staircases and generous servants quarters.
Strubenheim (Rod Kruger)
I enjoyed looking at photos of the original furniture showing the opulent tastes of the time...
