Save Norscot Manor

Mahjong in the Troon Room

Darn. Another heritage building in Joburg is in danger of being lost to development. This time it comes even closer to home. Norscot Manor in nearby Fourways is where my mahjong group meets.

Originally the home of the Mr. and Mrs. Ernst Ericksen and their family, it was built in 1935 on a hill with a still unobstructed view of the Magaliesberg Mountains to the north. The name 'Norscot" combines part of the names of two countries important to the Ericksen family. "Nor" from Norway, Ernst's Ericksen's native country, and "Scot" for Scotland where Ernst met his future wife Ethel Mary Turner.

In 1982, Norscot Manor was auctioned off and purchased by the Sandton Historical Association for use as a community and recreation center.

Today it is in full use with classes, meetings, social functions, and a library. It is the home of the Watercolour Society of South Africa and has a dedicated gallery for art exhibitions.

So many groups use Norscot Manor as a community meeting place! And there are language schools, martial arts classes, yoga and exercise classes ...

It has a really nice outdoor tea garden and play area for children.

There are always art exhibitions in the gallery.

It facade showcases beautiful Dutch Vernacular architecture.

and gardens.

So many beautiful details inside too!

 
There was a public meeting recently where the  Friends of Norscot Manor was formed and a Save Norscot Manor Recreation Centre petition was drafted.

Unfortunately Norscot Manor does not currently hold heritage status. There is really nothing at this point protecting it from being sold by the City of Sandton to the highest bidder and turned into another shopping mall or apartment complex.

I signed it!

Hopefully the F of NM will remedy that situation first so that the property can be protected and preserved for future use by the communities of Greater Sandton.

For more details or to get involved,
contact Ward 115 councillor Chris Santana at csantana@ward115.co.za