The 'native station'

In line with segregationist government policies a new and separate 'native station' was built over the tracks on the east side of Park Station. In August 1932, walking through the soon to be completed station, the well-known South African author, Eric Rosenthal voiced his approval of this separate station:-

'Tactfully recognising South African realities in the interests of both sections, the designers of the building have kept Bantu and European entirely apart. Near the Wanderers the black man has an entrance of his very own, which leads to a commodious and comfortable depot up aloft. Many experienced railwaymen consider this the most ingeniously designed part of the station, and maybe they are right. In the native section the Bantu finds large and cosy waiting rooms (well heated in winter), both for men and for women, luggage stores, up-to-date ticket offices worked on the queue system, cloakrooms, a pukka coffee stall, complete with all that is needed to quench the thirst of a dusky throat, and - in case of eventualities - a police station with emergency lock-up, for travellers who do not behave with entire decorum.'

Considering the general lack of proper facilities for black travellers in early years, Park Station might well have been a haven to the poor from far-off rural areas who came to the City of Gold in search of a livelihood. There was even an Indian waiting room with a special section which had a mat on the floor for Muslims who wished to pray before a journey. 'The provision made by the SAR for its Muslim travellers is bound to be appreciated', was the comment by the Rand Daily Mail. Comment from black people on these amenities was not reported.

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