Souvenir Saturday: Durban Docks ca 1887

Durban Docks circa 1887. Extremity of Point Wharf showing original Wharf Shed A erected in 1881 (with curved roof) and the Sheers erected at the end of the main wharf, the total length of which, at this period, did not exceed 1500 feet.In the left foreground is a craft known as the "Anchor Boat" used for laying moorings about the Bay.  The funnel of one of the paddle tugs (probably "Forerunner") can be seen in front of the ship in full sail.  To the right of "A" Shed is the Customs House.

Port workers ca 1860s Durban

Note the turbaned Indians. This photograph would have been taken after the initial arrival of Indian migrant labour and reminds us that not all of these immigrants worked on sugar or other plantations. Many were employed at the harbour or, later, on the railways.

Below, African port workers manning a boat: a rare photograph. Listed in the Natal Almanac
of 1875 (see final photo below) are 'Native Boatmen and freed slaves at different rates per agreement'.

Durban docks ca 1887: was your ancestor here?

Durban Docks circa 1887. Extremity of Point Wharf showing original Wharf Shed A erected in 1881 (with curved roof) and the Sheers erected at the end of the main wharf, the total length of which at this period did not exceed 1500 feet. In the left foreground is a craft known as the Anchor Boat used for laying moorings about the Bay. The funnel of one of the paddle tugs (probably Forerunner) can be seen in front of the ship in full sail. To the right of A Shed is the Customs House.