Central
This is one of the oldest parts of Port Elizabeth. Many of the buildings in Govan Mbeki Avenue, previously Main Street, were built in the 1800's. Unfortunately many old buildings in Central were demolished to make way for the freeways.
 The City Hall was completed in 1861. The Porch was added in 1865. The clock tower was added in 1883/84.
In 1972 there was a move to demolish the hall, but it was saved and declared a National Monument.
Information from the writings of Margaret Harradine
 The Public Library is also another beautiful building on Market Square. The statue of Queen Victoria was erected in March of 1897.
Despite the bad publicity that this area has received through television, there is still a lot of good happening in this area.
There are Mothers and Grandmothers who speak out against drugs, There are those who help take the young girls off the streets and help those who have been abused.
The love in this area is great. What can you do to help?
Today the walls of the old Grand Hotel are covered with bright murals which symbolise the new culture mix in this area.
There are many beautiful historical buildings and churches which hopefully will be looked after.
On Havelock Square several buildings have been beautifully restored. On a Sunday morning this area is alive with activity as people attend the various church services.
The Holy Trinity Church and the St.John's Methodist Church are beautiful churches and attending one of their services is a moving experience. Many people still travel from all over Port Elizabeth to attend a church service here in Central.
Fort Fredirick is set on top of the hill overlooking the Baakens River and the harbour. You just have to climb up to the top corners of the Fort to see Port Elizabeth from there, make sure to take your camera and binoculars.
While there, try to imagine that in 1820 when the British Settlers arrived, there was nothing much here at all except for the fort and a few buildings. |
