Donkin Reserve, Port Elizabeth

Afrikaans name: Donkin-reservaat

Donkin Reserve, Port Elizabeth

Photo © Joyce van Stan - Fotolia.com

Eastern Cape

Although the area around Port Elizabeth had been populated for hundreds of years it was Sir Rufane Shaw Donkin, who was the acting governor of the Cape Colony, who founded the town and named it after his wife Elizabeth. Donkin requested that the pyramid, that forms part of the Donkin Reserve, be built in honour of Elizabeth, who passed away before Donkins appointment in South Africa.

The lighthouse, in the Donkin Reserve, was constructed in 1861. It is now home to the Nelson Mandela Bay Tourist Information Centre. It is here where you may purchase a map the 5 km Donkin Heritage Trail which takes you to 51 places of historical interest.

The Donkin Reserve today houses other artworks, a restaurant and an information centre. There is also a flagpole which flies the largest South African flag in South Africa. The reserve also features a tribute to Nelson Mandela and one can also enjoy scenic views of Algoa Bay. Tours of the Reserve are available and may include a climb to the top of the lighthouse.

Been there? What's it like?

References and further reading

Southern Africa from the Highway - Author: AA RSA - Published: 1991 - Page: 196

go! - Issue 140 - Author: - Published: 2018 - Page: 58

Getaway - Vol 30 No 06 - Author: - Published: 2018 - Page: 84

Conollys Guide to Southern Africa - 2nd edition - Author: Denis Conolly - Published: 1982 - Page: 131

Nelson Mandela Bay Tourism

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