Staatsmodelschool, Educational building in Pretoria, South Africa
Staatsmodelschool is an educational building in Pretoria, South Africa, featuring Dutch Neo-Renaissance architectural elements with red brick walls and sandstone details. The structure stands at the intersection of Van der Walt and Skinner streets and displays characteristic design features from the late 1800s.
The building was designed by architect Sytze Wierda in 1895 and completed in 1896, serving as a teacher training institution in the South African Republic. During the Anglo-Boer War, it was converted into a detention facility for British officers.
The building represents the educational standards of late 19th century South Africa, incorporating Dutch architectural influences in its design and construction methods.
The former school building now houses Transvaal Education Department library services, providing educational resources to the local community. Visitors should check opening hours in advance, as access to the interior may be restricted at certain times.
During the Anglo-Boer War, the building served as a detention facility for British officers before returning to its educational purpose. This military use left an important mark on Pretoria's local history.
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