Gandhi, gold and galleries in Marshaltown

Local history lover Tim Truluck has such a fondness for the city centre and its hidden treasures that he is happy to help others explore this unique area.

For several years, Truluck has led the informal Gandhi, gold and galleries walking tour along streets that once were dirt roads linking mines and farms.

“Marshaltown has a fascinating history and many people don’t realise how much of it is available to be seen and experienced. With the Gautrain Park station now operational, it’s even easier for people to explore the wonders of downtown Johannesburg,” said Truluck.

After arrival at Park station, the tour party make their way to Pritchard Street via bus, and it is from there that the tour proper will begin.

“We walk down Rissik or Joubert streets toward Gandhi Square, and cross Market and Commissioner streets en route. Commissioner was the border between Johannesburg, then known as the Randjeslaagte triangle, and Marshaltown,” said Truluck.

As the party heads toward Gandhi Square, Truluck will explain how the streets were named, various personalities in the city’s history, and how Marshaltown’s streets influenced the pattern of old Johannesburg’s streets.

After spending a few moments exploring the square and surrounding streets, the tour then heads down Main Street to take a closer look at exhibitions and displays linked specifically to the mining industry, including cocoa pans, headgear, stamp mills and the entrance to a mineshaft in a basement of a bank.

“The Standard Bank Gallery is the next stop and provides a brief escape from the heat and the hustle and bustle of the streets. It’s a wonderful space and often features interesting exhibitions,” said Truluck.

The tour will come to a close with a light meal in one of the old pubs or upmarket eateries found in this rejuvenated area.

Truluck conducts the tour on an ad hoc basis or by appointment.

Details: 083-619-2419; ttruluck@gmail.com

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