The pyramid was erected by Sir Rufane Donkin in memory of his young wife who died in India shortly before he came to the fledgling city. He administered the Cape colony from 1820 to 1821 and named the rising seaport of Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth in memory of his wife.
The plaque on the pyramid reads, "To the memory of one of the most perfect human beings who has given her name to the Town below."
The lighthouse is no longer in use as it lost its effectiveness as the city grew up around it and was replaced with a new metal structure on the coast.
Very interesting structures and a very unique Skywatch Post!
ReplyDeleteCheers, Klaus
It's a beautiful structure and very smart of the city to keep it in good shape. I'm sure it attracts many tourists. Hey! I'd want to see it if I were in Port Elizabeth, ;-)
ReplyDeleteHappy Sky Watch!
This is a really nice photo for sky watch.
ReplyDeleteMy Sky Watch Friday blog is at my Canon Pixels blog. If you have time I would appreciate your having a look at the sky peeking through the oak tree leaves.
I have had a drink tonight so I thought I was seeing things. A most unique skywatch
ReplyDeleteFabulous sky. Beautiful and interesting structs. Excellent capture for SWF.
ReplyDeleteQuite the unique building... glad it was not torn down regardless of it not being used anymore... it's very nice... great post.
ReplyDeleteMountain Retreat
Amazing things to see in your pretty blue sky! I like what is written on the plaque. She must have really been special.
ReplyDeletenice photo of a place I have never been. Thanks for sharing
ReplyDeleteThat's a cool shot..Thanks for sharing..
ReplyDeleteHappy SWF
I suspect that one of the structures in this image is bordering on phallic! Having said that, it is a most satisfying composition.
ReplyDeleteThis is so beautiful! I LOVE lighthouses!
ReplyDeleteVery nice photo!!
ReplyDeleteThat is an unusual lighthouse structure. I´ve never seen both of these forms together. Thanks for your lovely story.
ReplyDeleteInteresting to see the pyramid next to the light house.
ReplyDeletePaz
what a fun set of buildings, and a great skywatch photo!
ReplyDeleteLovely photograph, I particularly appreciate the historical comment.
ReplyDeleteCool, a lighthouse and a pyramid in the same pic.
ReplyDeleteWhat a nice photo....the lighthouse and the unusual pyramid....amazing.
ReplyDeleteClassical Donkin photo. Nicely done.
ReplyDeleteExcellent composition, the sky is so clear and makes the architecture so unique and sharp. Anna :)
ReplyDeleteGreat picture and thanks for that little bit of info on it.
ReplyDeleteI've always thought that this was one of the most romantic stories I'd ever heard - the heartbroken Sir Rufane Donkin naming the city after his late wife who never laid eyes on the place. We don't make a big enough fuss about it, or the pyramid with its lovely inscription. When there is talk abtou changing the city's name it makes my blodd boil - who wouldn't want a city named for a great love, rather than someone aloigned with a particular political party?!
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