Remembering UP: Buildings of the 1910s

The University of Pretoria has a rich architectural heritage that represents the most important building styles of the past 110 years. During its foundation years the Transvaal University College (T.U.C) build a number of buildings in the neoclassical style on the newly acquired grounds in Hatfield.

Old College residence © University of Pretoria Archives 

The Old College Building was completed in 1914 despite severe financial restraints felt by the onset of the First World War. The building was initially used as a men’s hostel. In 1921 the dining hall was extended. A balcony roof was added in 1932. From 1962 onwards the building ceased to be a student residence. It has since housed the offices for Speech Therapy, Afrikaans and Dutch Literature, Student Advice offices. It was also used as research rooms for Faculty of Education also used it for their researchers. In 1973 Old College housed Student Services. It is currently houses the Centre for the Advancement of Scholarship.

Old College residence © University of Pretoria Archives 

The UP Archives (UPA) preserves the history of the University of Pretoria. While the academic year is coming to an end, the UPA will focus on its building, landscape and photographic collection. We also have an extensive clipping and art history collection. Please contact us  on [email protected] to share your memories of Tukkies or access our collection virtually.