Rand Club has played an important role in the development of Johannesburg, being the oldest members-only club in the city. It was founded by Cecil John Rhodes in 1887 in Johannesburg, just one year after the development of the city had begun.
The building where Rand Club is currently situated at 33 Loveday Street was designed in 1902 and completed in 1904.
It was the third home of the club. The club admitted only white men when it was opened, but after Nelson Mandela was released from prison the club began to admit people of colour – and women.
Back in the day, the club could only have been described as the meeting place of the rich, powerful and elite – a place where they could socialise with each other and avoid the riff-raff of the city.
The club has gained widespread recognition for its 31m long bar – the longest bar in Africa – and the cabinet of pool cues that were owned by past members.
The club was closed in October this year to the dismay of club members due to dwindling membership.
The 128-year-old club is yet to be re-opened, and the future of the Rand Club remains uncertain.
Details: www.randclub.co.za
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