Origins of Durban

Abstract

This contribution challenges the authenticity of 23 June 1835 as the actual founding day of Durban. The origins of this seaport are traced, with reference to the role played by the founders, the indigenous inhabitants on the Bluff, the British settlers and the Voortrekkers. The author concludes that the original settlement of Henry Francis Fynn and Francis Farewell during May and June 1824 was the nucleus that developed into the present city. This implies that in 1988 Durban should be celebrating its 164th anniversary and not its 153rd anniversary.