Uncle Charlie's Roadhouse Retro Board
Remember the aeroplane on the roof?
The name “Uncle Charlie’s” dates back to the early 20th century.
It was originally associated with a small hotel and filling station at a major intersection
south of Johannesburg, run by Charles de Jongh, a big game hunter and entrepreneur. This spot became a landmark for travellers entering the city from the platteland (rural areas).
Roadhouse Era
By the 1950s–1960s, Uncle Charlie’s evolved into a petrol station with a roadhouse and restaurant, serving motorists and families.
It became famous for its casual dining experience—burgers, milkshakes, and car-side service—similar to other roadhouses that were popular in South Africa during the 70s and 80s.
It was considered a social hotspot for teens and travellers, though not necessarily for gourmet food—milkshakes were the highlight.
Iconic Landmark
The intersection where Uncle Charlie’s stood became notorious for traffic congestion as Johannesburg expanded. By the early 1980s, the area handled over 50,000 vehicles daily, causing queues up to 5 km long.
This led to the Uncle Charlie’s Interchange Project, completed in the mid-1980s at a cost of R40 million.
The project transformed the site into a massive freeway interchange, effectively ending the roadhouse era at that location.
Cultural Memory
For many Joburg residents, Uncle Charlie’s is remembered as a symbol of the city’s growth and the golden age of roadhouses. It even featured quirky attractions like an airplane on the roof in later years, adding to its iconic status.
These boards are made from soft steel and can be mounted on the wall, either by the folded strip at the back, or holes can be drilled at the allocated spaces indicated. This is ideal for outside areas, like an enclosed braai area etc. |