Have you ever wondered about the origins of Overport? Right here before us lies a piece of Durban’s history. This hilly residential area wasn’t always known as Overport. It began life as West Hill a quieter place before its transformation.
William Hartley the eighth Mayor of Durban is the man behind the name Overport. He developed an estate there. He named it Overport. This estate was bounded by what are now Julia Springfield Essenwood and Brickfield Roads. The modern Overport is larger than Hartley’s original vision. It encompasses parts of Sydenham Sparks and Essenwood. A portion of Sydenham is known as Asherville.
Overport sits adjacent to Berea. West of Ridge Road Overport has a significant Indian population. Mosques and temples are abundant in this area. Many Halaal restaurants line Sparks Road now named Moses Kotane Road. The Atrium Berea shopping centre formerly Overport City is located here. Netcare Parklands Hospital is also in Overport.
The M10 Felix Dlamini Road is Overport’s main artery. It connects to the N3 highway and Cato Manor to the south and Springfield to the north. Hartley’s influence extends beyond just the name. He also played a pivotal role in Durban’s early development. He even served as Mayor. His entrepreneurial spirit left an indelible mark on the city. He was involved in everything from importing pepper to establishing sugar plantations.
Hartley’s Overport House a grand structure with a massive roof designed to collect rainwater was built in 1865. It was later used by the Governor of Natal. His story is intertwined with Overport’s. Their fates are forever linked. The legacy of this visionary leader continues to shape the area we see today. So next time you are in Overport remember its unique history. Remember the man who gave it its name. Remember William Hartley.