Donkin from the harbour

While we were visiting the beautiful ship Sagres, this unusual view of the Donkin Lighthouse presented itself, seen at sunset through an old metal warehouse structure.

height restriction

In a city characterised by short sighted and often environmentally disastrous town planning policies for much of its history, it is almost a surprise to acknowledge one really good decision that was made in our past, and has largely been adhered to. A height restriction was imposed on all buildings at the bottom of the … Continue reading height restriction →

Sunrise over the harbour

Sunrise over the harbour this morning, as seen from the Donkin Reserve.

Route Markers

Sometimes there are things that are unique to your town, but they are such a part of everyday life that you don't even realise it. One such example is the route markers on our roads. The green background image behind the route numbers depicts the Donkin lighthouse and Pyramid, which are such iconic symbols of … Continue reading Route Markers →

A different view of Donkin Lighthouse

This was taken in Richmond Hill one morning at sunrise, from the road that runs past the proposed block that was halted, which we told you about in Friday's Post. Because of its position on the brow of the Hill on which the first buildings in the city were developed, it is possible to get … Continue reading A different view of Donkin Lighthouse →

Perspective on the Donkin

Taking a different view of the Donkin Memorial one the the iconic land marks in Port Elizabeth.

dirty details.

Here is a close up look at Ken Denton's shameful legacy. Yesterday we showed you the original historic documents relating to these houses. This is how they look today.And the closer you get, the worse it is. These once proud properties are mostly rented out to illegal immigrants, and the decorative woodwork is apparently being … Continue reading dirty details. →

In the beginning…….

Here are 3 fascinating pages found amongst the collection of historic documents at our main library.They are from the original fragile land books of the early 1800s in which all grants of land by the Colonial Government to the city were detailed. They are hand written in flowing copperplate, and accompanied by hand drawn maps … Continue reading In the beginning……. →

A dark cloud hangs over the Donkin

One of the iconic PE landmarks is this terrace in Donkin Hill, built in the early 1800's. This photo was taken recently. Below is one taken several years ago, so that you can compare, and see what has become of these stunning old houses.Sadly, they have become dilapidated and are deteriorating daily.This terrace is one … Continue reading A dark cloud hangs over the Donkin →

View from the Donkin Reserve

This is a different view of the Donkin reserve looking towards the Hill Presbetarian Church and the historical homes on the Donkin Terrace.We plan to do a series on what is happening to this historical area that is such an integral part of the Port Elizabeth heritage.