BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE OF THE TRUST

In 1960 two decades of ruthless destruction began and hundreds of homes in Parktown were demolished to make way for some of the ugliest buildings in Africa. A determination to destroy this stronghold of "English Liberalism" meant properties were expropriated for massive government institutions.

The Trust was formed to rally support for the heritage and combat public indifference by making the houses more accessible. We have put a stop to the process of demolition of old buildings for new developments, but the conservation task is nowhere near complete.

There is no house museum available to the public. Some of the buildings belong to worthy but cash-strapped institutions so funds are needed for proper restoration and sound maintenance.

There is still much research to be done. Johannesburg people have always been in a hurry and few keep the old photographs, letters and diaries which provide a record of lifestyle in all sections of a household.

Educating the public, starting with school children , to appreciate the role that old buildings play in their environment as landmarks of place, of their history, its achievements and its failures, is our most important task. It is complicated by the fact that Parktown 's origins re essentially elitist – White, capitalist and colonial.

Finally the work of the Trust cannot be confined to Parktown. Until Metropolitan planning takes the conservation of the urban heritage seriously and the legislation and structures have been created in the Province of Gauteng to protect that heritage, the buildings and gardens of Parktown and Westcliff will remain at risk.

Last Edit : 15/02/2006