  rom the shores of the Indian Ocean the
ground rises steeply at first and then levels to a flat plateau. It is
these natural features of the Central area of Port Elizabeth that lend
themselves to a heritage trail that not only charms a visitor, but also
takes them back to the year 1849.
The Donkin Houses form part of this
heritage trail as do the Donkin Reserve and memorial pyramid which were
proclaimed National Monuments in 1938.
The journey to the past starts in the
north western corner of Market Square at The
Library Building. The
present library building was opened in 1902 and is regarded as an epic
example of Victorian Gothic architecture. It is also a national monument.
 Keeping a watchful eye on those who enter the main street and stroll down
the city centre is the Scilian marble Statue of
Queen Victoria.
To
the statue’s right is Market Square, originally the landing
beach. The square was the focal point for the buying and selling of goods
by the local and district farmers. It is now a pedestrian square.
 Looking eastwards from Market Square the
Campanile is a 51 metre high brick structure completed in 1923 to commemorate the
landing of the 1820 Settlers. It poses a challenge to the fit and healthy
with a spiral staircase of 204 steps which once conquered, offers
spectacular views of Algoa Bay.
As one moves up the and away from the
shores of the ocean you will come across Number 7 Castle Hill. One
of the oldest dwellings in Port Elizabeth which boasts a lower storey
built of stone and an upper of brick with beautiful yellowwood floors and
beams. It is now an Historical Museum.
Also on top o the hill is Fort
Frederick which overlooks the old landing beach at the mouth of the
Baakans River. The Fort contains a powder magazine and a guardhouse and
was originally defended by eight 12-pounder guns.
Moving to Bird Street is an area that was
once a prestigious residential area of gracious homes set with wide
landscaped gardens. Up Bird Street one can see PEMBRIDGE HOUSE
built in 1840 for merchant Joseph Smith. Originally named
Jessieville, the
present name comes from the family’s London address at the time.
The area is also host to The
King George VI Art Gallery, a Conservatory, an Open Air Theatre, Churches,
a Horse Memorial, Hotel and an Opera House, all of which have their
roots deep within the past. These landmarks and many others, are within
walking distance of the beautiful Donkin Houses.
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