- Address: Donkin Street | Belmont Terrace, Port Elizabeth, South Africa;
- Phone: +270415822575
In the historic part of Port Elizabeth stands a stone pyramid and a white lighthouse tower, located in a park called the Donkin Reserve or the Donkin Reserve.
History of the park
The park was broken by the personal order of Sir Rufan Donkin and immortalized the memory of his late wife - Elizabeth, who died before her husband's arrival in Africa. Becoming the founder of Port Elizabeth and his governor, Donkin conceived the erection of a family memorial, which would always be a reminder of the happy years spent with his wife, their boundless love that even death could survive. The author of the project and epitaph was himself Sir Rufan.
The monument is a pyramid, like the whole street of Donkin Street, executed in a Victorian style that demonstrates the might and grandeur of England and its monarchs. Next to the pyramid is a lighthouse, built in the second half of the XIX century. In its time it was used for its intended purpose and for many years in inclement weather indicated the correct direction to the ships. Today, the lighthouse, by order of the city authorities, has become a museum representing a collection of unique things that belonged to Donkin and eloquently talk about a bygone era.
In addition, the park's territory is inhabited by diverse representatives of flora and fauna, which makes its visit even more interesting and informative.
Helpful information
The Donkin Reserve Museum is open daily. On weekdays from 08.00 to 16.00 hours, on weekends from 09.30 to 15.30. The entrance is free. If there is a desire to learn more about Sir Rufan's life, then you can use the specially organized walking route "Donkin's Legacy".
To get to the Donkin Reserve museum you can use a local taxi or rent a car. The taxi will cost you 15 - 20 rand, depending on the distance from the sights. Renting a car will be more expensive, about 30 to 50 rand. City buses No. 3, 9, 16 follow to the terminal station "Railway Station", from which you will have to walk for 7-10 minutes. The fare is 2 rand.
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