Remember when this site held a hospital? Now, we stand before the Durban High Court a place of justice. Its story is woven into Durban’s very fabric.
The Durban High Court wasn’t always a courthouse. This location has transformed over time. From 1861 to 1879, the Natal Government Hospital stood here. Later Addington Hospital replaced it. It even served as a refuge for Isandlwana survivors. They were treated during the Anglo-Zulu War campaigns.
Between 1880 and 1894, Durban High School occupied this site. Imagine students learning where lawyers now argue cases. From 1895 to 1907, the Durban Boys Model School used the building. This makes the Durban High Court’s ground rich with educational history.
Stanley Hudson designed the present Durban High Court building. Construction finished in 1910. Its architecture reflects a sense of authority and permanence. In 1980, the Durban High Court was declared a National Monument. This recognition protects its historical and cultural value for future generations.
Before this court was built, Masonic Grove existed here. The Masonic Temple of Port Natal Lodge stood on Smith Street’s corner in 1871. A fire destroyed it in 1892. It was rebuilt and used until 1949. Sangro House replaced it later.
Even Mahatma Gandhi has ties to this area. From 1894 to 1902, he practiced law nearby. His chambers were near the present open parking lot behind Salmon Grove Chambers.
In 1923, Graham Mackeurtan and other advocates worked from Temple Chambers. Today, these chambers house the Durban High Court’s administrative offices. A plaque on the Esplanade frontage tells some of this history.
Goodrickes building now Atrium Court was built in 1930. George Herbert Herron Goodricke oversaw its construction daily. Goodrickes, a law firm, originally occupied it. It was considered unique with novel features for law offices.
Lawyers have shown renewed interest in this area since 2005. Its proximity to the Durban High Court makes it desirable. The Durban High Court Precinct Association formed in 2006. Its goal is improving the area and maintaining standards.
Advocates occupy Atrium Court and Masonic Grove Chambers today. Attorneys occupy Lincoln Chambers. The Durban High Court plans to expand into the adjacent Defence Force site.
The KwaZulu-Natal Division of the High Court has a long history. It began as the Natal District Court in 1846. In 1857, it became the Supreme Court of Natal. After 1910, it was the Natal Provincial Division. In 2009, it was renamed the KwaZulu-Natal High Court. Restructuring in 2013 created the KwaZulu-Natal Division.
The Durban High Court stands not just as a building. It is a testament to Durban’s evolving story. From hospital to school to court it reflects justice. The Durban High Court remains a vital part of the city.