The original home of DHS in Smith Street, Durban.
Image: File pic
Today’s Then and Now looks at Durban High School, which will celebrate its 160th anniversary in June.
According to the DHS Foundation Trust, the all-boys school began as a two-room building known as Manor House on Smith Street (now Anton Lembede Street), constructed by William Hartley, then mayor of Durban.
The DHS building as its stands today in St Thomas Road.
Image: Leon Lestrade/Independent Newspapers
Seven boys were enrolled on the first day, with Robert Russell serving as the school’s first headmaster.
The DHS Foundation Trust, formerly the Durban High School and Old Boys’ Memorial Trust, was established in June 1946 to support and develop the school through partnerships with Old Boys, parents, staff and learners.
The school moved premises over the years, including to a granary in Cato Square and then to the Old Hospital in Bayside. Today, it is located on St Thomas Road, Musgrave.