“A Scottish name for a Johannesburg suburb?” I can almost hear you ask. Yes, it’s true. We are standing in Greenside. This suburb of Johannesburg has Scottish roots.
Let’s take a walk through this leafy suburb. Greenside borders Emmarentia, Parkview, Parkhurst, and Victory Park. It’s a vibrant area with a rich history.
Greenside’s story begins on the Braamfontein Farm. This large farm once comprised much of Johannesburg. Lourens Geldenhuys bought the land in 1886. He hoped to find gold. The Confidence Reef didn’t extend into his farm. The land remained a farm.
By 1891, the farm was divided. Orange Road marks the division between Frans and Louw. They were Lourens Geldenhuys’ sons. The brothers built two farmhouses. Louw Geldenhuys passed away in 1929. His wife, Emmarentia, began selling parts of the farm. These parts became the surrounding suburbs. Greenside was established on February 4, 1931. The Rand Mines Group surveyed it.
The name Greenside is believed to be Scottish. It refers to the Parkview Golf Club. The golf course predates the suburb. It was established in 1916. It was modified in 1930. Many of Greenside’s roads are named after golf courses. They are also named after Scottish golfers. Leitch Road is named for Charlotte Cecilia Pitcairn Leitch. She was a Scottish golfer. Quimet Street honors Francis Ouimet. He was an American golfer. The spelling discrepancy remains a mystery.
Greenside has a few important institutions. Greenside Primary School was established by 1940. Greenside High School followed in January 1961. Pirates Club has been in Greenside since 1952. The Sir Lionel Phillips Trust donated the land. The club itself originated in 1888.
Today, Greenside is known for its restaurants. It has a similar feel to Parkhurst and Melville. You will also find the Village Green Shopping Centre here. Pirates Sports and Rugby Club is a local favorite. Sir Lionel Phillips Park offers green space. The Parkview Golf Club is just next door.
Take a stroll down Greenway and Gleneagles Road. You’ll find interior design stores and art colleges. Pavement cafés offer a place to relax. You might want to stop at Paco. Some say it’s the best carpet shop in the city.
Just west of Greenside lies Emmarentia Dam. It is one of Johannesburg’s most loved spots. The Johannesburg Botanical Gardens are nearby. Together, they cover 81 hectares.
Walk along the dam. Watch canoeists and kayakers. Anglers cast their lines. Small yachts glide across the water. People gather for a braai. It is a South African tradition.
From its Scottish-inspired name to its vibrant community, Greenside offers a unique blend of history and modern life. As you explore, remember the farm that once was. Remember the golfers who inspired the street names. And enjoy the lively atmosphere of this Johannesburg suburb.