Durban: White Gold
South Africa’s third largest city, Durban was formally declared an English colony in 1844. As soon as colonization was declared, the British surged into town introducing their customs and manners. Afternoon tea and horse racing became popular, as did the English style of building and homes with large verandas.
Both before and after colonization the Durban area was well known for sugar. Termed “white gold” by the British, many robber barons made their fortunes off of the product. Many of the homes of the infamous sugar exporters still exist and can be toured today. Sir Marshall Campbell was perhaps the most illustrious robber baron and his home is now a museum. The Campbell Collection is one of the city’s popular tourist attractions. Sir Campbell was known in the area for more than his business spirit. He was an amateur inventor. Many examples of his inventions are exhibited in his former home.
Visitors to Durban’s seafront will also see Campbell’s mark. In 1893, hoping to make the beach a popular tourist destination for visiting Europeans, Campbell brought rickshaws to the beach so ladies could enjoy the ocean without getting dirty. The rickshaws, albeit and updated version, are still used as oceanfront transportation today.
Durban has much to offer tourists. The uShaka Marine World is a first class amusement park situated near the beach. The Suncoast Casino, also on the coast, is a fashionable European style casino that also brings world-class entertainment to the area. Many museums and art centers can be found throughout the town and Durban’s rich history of dance and performing arts can be seen in many venues.
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