2 March 2023
Thursday, 2 March, marked 160 years, not just of existence, but of excellence, for Maritzburg College, with the schools’ students donning their full school uniforms and famous bashers to celebrate a momentous occasion.
Founded by William Calder in 1863, the school’s original location was in a carpenter’s shop on old Longmarket Street, now Langalibalele Street.
The initial intake was of 36 boys. Today, Maritzburg College is home to over 1200 learners, some of them the fifth generation of College boys in their family.
After 25 years, in 1888, College moved to new premises, which were then on the outskirts of Pietermaritzburg. These are now its current location.
School campus
Designed by PM Dudgeon, the leading architect in Natal, the classroom and boarding block on the new premises later became known as “Clark House”, named after the school’s third Headmaster, RD Clark. Today, Clark House is a provincial heritage site. A little over a decade later, College’s Victoria Hall was also named a provincial heritage site.
The famous red, black and white colours of the school were introduced in 1891 by EJ Holgate, the captain of the school’s football team. This was followed by the introduction of the College badge, featuring a carbine and assegai, by Headmaster RD Clark. The school’s motto of Pro Aris et Focis – For Hearth and Home – was also adopted.
Since its founding, Maritzburg College has earned a deserved reputation, through its many outstanding achievements and values, of being one of South Africa’s leading schools. Its excellent holistic educational offering rivals that of any other school in the country.
College’s status as a cornerstone of the city of Pietermaritzburg is undisputed. It’s position as one of the country’s leading schools is universally accepted. The red, black and white is respected.
Happy birthday to a great school!
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