A Brief History
The Rand Club boasts a rich history, reflective of South Africa's past and its gains under a system of democracy. Established in 1887, just one year after gold was discovered on the Langlaagte farm, the Rand Club was the brain child of Cecil John Rhodes and Dr Hans Sauer, the first district surgeon of Johannesburg. Together they pioneered the very first gentleman's club in what was then the township of Johannesburg.
The Rand Club has been built and rebuilt many times, to both expand the club's membership and to restore the clubhouse after a devastating fire in 2005. Nevertheless, it stands as a timeless South African icon in the former hub of the city. Over the last year, the Club has undergone radical improvements to its management, food and beverage services, events and various renovation projects. As such, the Club has since become a hub of activity within the Johannesburg CBD. But these improvements and financial gains cannot sustain the Club perpetually.
COVID-19 Complications
In response to the call for the closure of all public spaces and restaurants to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Rand Club closed its doors in late March. Thanks to the extended national lockdown period, it has remained closed to the public, resulting in their team of staff losing vital tips and commissions. As we enter level 3 lockdown, it seems unlikely that the Club will be allowed to open its doors. Even if they were able to reopen, it will take a long time for things to return to 'normal'. The Club's managers therefore foresee several months of diminished income for the team, possibly resulting in several job losses.
To help see themselves through the coming months, the Rand Club has implemented a number of emergency measures. Most of these measures rely on donor support and public awareness to raise funds. If you have ever visited the Rand Club or are a
member, please do get involved. It would be a tragic loss to see this icon of bygone times face permanent closure. Here's how you can do your part to save the Rand Club:
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Rand Club Staff Fund
The Rand Club recently employed eight young staff members to work in their food and beverage operation, and to serve at events. Their income is now at risk, which is why the Club has pioneered the Rand Club Staff Fund. You can make a contribution (no matter how big or small) to the Club's vulnerable staff members by donating through Zapper, PayPal or on their
Go Get Funding page. This campaign will ensure that the Rand Club team receive their wages throughout lockdown and in the recovery period afterwards. So far, an estimated R25 000 has been raised online.
Join the campaign here and help keep the Rand Club team afloat.
Rand Club Restaurant
The Rand Club restaurant welcomes both members and outside visitors for an exquisite dining experience at the ground floor Main Bar. Of course, during lockdown the restaurant will be unable to host guests, but you can now order from their kitchen for delivery to your home via Uber Eats! Delivery will operate between 10:00 - 18:00 each day. Check out their delectable
winter delivery menu here. We highly recommend the Rogan Josh of Lamb - slow braised lamb in garlic, bay leaves, cloves, curry, cardamom and cinnamon with yoghurt, served with steamed basmati rice - for a scrumptious Sunday lunch feast.
Pre-paid Vouchers
Like many other
Jozi restaurants and cultural centres, the Rand Club is offering pre-paid restaurant, bar and accommodation vouchers to use once lockdown is over. Get busy planning your post-lockdown plans and score a discounted voucher from the Rand Club before they're all gone! Contact Philip Thurston via email at
[email protected] to inquire about vouchers.
For More Information
Visit the
Rand Club website for more information about its history, present and future. You can also follow the Club on
Facebook for updates on their lockdown initiatives and voucher specials.
Details: 33 Loveday Street and Fox Street, Marshalltown, Johannesburg | (Tel) 011 870 4260 / 064 005 3128 |
[email protected]
