Kissing the Old Gaol goodbye

Tue, 27 Jul, 2010

Simone Marais

Despite the cold nights over the weekend, the Old Gaol filled up rapidly and the atmosphere quickly turned to one of fond reminiscence and respect for a venue close to the hearts of so many.

Groups of people huddled around fires in drums dotted around the historic building to chat and remember all the good times that had been spent there.

The South African Heritage Resources Agency (SAHRA), which owns the building, has refused to renew the annual lease and has evicted the owner, Brian Peltason, from the premises.

SAHRA says they plan to open an education centre at the Old Gaol but it is not certain when and how this will happen.