As you can see in the vintage photo below, in the early days of Central, (mid 1800s) this slight depression at the top of the hill was a small lake, and the residents used to get togged up in all their Victorian Splendour, and have picnics on the banks. It is now a little park.
This gracious Hotel in Central is still a well run establishment, and the beautiful old building is lovingly cared for. It commands a wonderful view overlooking the Donkin Reserve, with its famous lighthouse and pyramid, and beyond that, the bay.
Near the bottom of Russell Road, opposite the historic graveyard, is a car wash. We have noticed that whatever the time of day, they always seem to be busy. They handwash the cars, and do a very thorough and reasonably priced job, which probably explains their popularity. An enterprising gentleman, clearly an immigrant from the North, has set up a coffee shop in the top room over the waiting room, to serve those waiting for their cars to be done.…
More animals from the Kragga Kamma Game Farm. Because the only predators in the area (cheetahs) are fenced in, these zebra and the other animals are very relaxed, and it is possible to get quite close to them.
When she is in a good mood Algoa Bay allows the fishermen to fish from New Brighton Pier. There is almost a festive atmosphere when they gather together on a nice day. ...................but when she is in a bad mood, you had better take heed, because she does not allow fishing.
This is the Harbour master's control tower, from here he keeps an eye on all the shipping in the port. All the land you see in this picure is reclaimed.
Across the road from the Feather Market Hall, between the City Hall and the Old Post Office in Port Elizabeth is an amazing statue dedicated to the seafarers who searched for Prester John between 1145 and 1645.During the 12th and 13th centuries, Prester John was believed to be the ruler of a vast and powerful empire in the interior of Asia. From the 14th to the 16th century, he was believed to be the king of Abyssinia (now Ethiopia) in…
Well, as is becoming usual, Felicity cat (our bratty but delightful Siamese kitten, who you can meet on our personal blogs) decided it was playtime at 4am, and unceremoniously woke us up. We were therefore up and about by the time the sun put in an appearance, and as it looked pretty spectacular, we leaped in the car and took off down the hill to capture it as it rose over the harbour. Again this is a multi-tasking photo, because…
The Edward Street Synagogue, with the early morning sun reflecting off the walls.
This yacht was abandoned by its owners some years ago, as they decided they were not cut out for the sea, after an arduous journey from Europe. Shortly after arriving in Port Elizabeth they jumped ship and flew back to home. It has been left to "rot" in the harbour and has become a nesting place for seagulls - apparently it will take a lot of work and a miracle to get it habitable again. Local fishermen affectionately refer to…