History of Old Durban by George Russell

History of Old Durban is a classic and richly detailed account of the early development of one of South Africa’s most important coastal cities. Written by George Russell and originally published in the early twentieth century, this 1971 Griggs hardcover edition preserves a valuable historical record of Durban’s transformation from a small colonial settlement into a thriving port city. Drawing on contemporary records, personal recollections, and historical documents, History of Old Durban provides readers with an absorbing glimpse into the people, events, and communities that shaped the city’s earliest years.

George Russell’s work remains an important source for anyone interested in the history of Durban and the broader development of KwaZulu-Natal. The book explores the arrival of European settlers, interactions between colonial communities and the indigenous population, the growth of trade and shipping, local government, social life, and the challenges faced by the emerging settlement. Through detailed descriptions and historical anecdotes, History of Old Durban brings the nineteenth-century city to life and captures the atmosphere of a rapidly changing region.

Beyond a simple chronological record, History of Old Durban offers valuable insight into the personalities and institutions that influenced the city’s growth. Russell documents the experiences of early residents, merchants, political figures, and community leaders, creating a portrait of Durban as both a colonial outpost and a developing centre of commerce and culture. The book is especially valuable for readers researching local history, genealogy, architecture, and the origins of modern Durban.

This 1971 Griggs hardcover edition is a desirable addition to collections focusing on South African history, KwaZulu-Natal heritage, or regional studies. With its historical detail and focus on the foundations of one of South Africa’s major cities, History of Old Durban remains a fascinating resource for historians, collectors, and anyone with an interest in the story of Durban’s past. It offers a window into a vanished era and preserves the memories, events, and personalities that helped define the character of the city.

Condition: Very Good – Prior ownership bookplate pasted on to front end page.