History of Pretoria Corps

The Salvation Army opened for the first time in Pretoria in the yaer 1886. The original hall was bought for £655 in 1932, with a mans at the back of the hall. The manse next door to the hall was aquired in 1940 for £900. At the opening of this manse, the then mayor of Pretoria, Mr A.B. Sidney said:  "Today marks a step forward – but let it be a step on a long ladder. There is still much to be done."

On May the 7^th 1955, the hall was closed for 5 months for aterations, and during this period, a tent was erected across from the hall where the services were held. October 22^nd 1955, the hall was reopened by Major General B. Klopper, Inspector General U.D.F.

It was also during this time that West Street was renamed Booth Street in honour of the Army’s work in the city of Pretoria, and in honour of the founder of the Salvation Army, William Booth.

In 1976, a new mans was purchased in Wonderboom south. In 1979 the old mans in Booth Street was turned into a home for destitute people. During the years that followed, some 5000 beds were provided. Many a prisoner released on parole, and many a destitute person found hope, work, and a new chance in life.

It then became necessary to vocate the premises, as the area was turned into the Kruger memorial Garden. The Corps was compensated by Community Development, and plans were drawn up for buildings in Church Street, Pretoria West.

On Sunday 11^th January at 9:00am, the final service was conducte3d in the old hall. After the service, refreshments were served, after which, all donned their overalls and working togs to move the halls furnishings. The premises was vocated on Monday the 12^th January.

In the interim, services were held at the old age home in Church Street.