Despatch’s brickmaking history offers a tangible way to explore the town: it is reflected in its name, the museum’s exhibits and the former use of the brickworks. At the same time, the Despatch Museum’s collection covers topics beyond industrial history, including a Stegosaurus and sports memorabilia. This makes it possible to explore local history as a distinct focus, while the wider destination of Nelson Mandela Bay encompasses other, separate cultural and nature themes.

Brickmaking history and museum exhibits

The name Despatch derives from the brick industry for which the town was known. The Despatch Museum displays original bricks made in Despatch. Bricks from the town were also used to build many homes in Port Elizabeth and Uitenhage. This historical connection links the place of production with the bricks’ use in other towns. It is this connection that makes brickmaking more than an isolated local topic: it can also be placed within the building history of the wider area.

The Despatch Museum also displays two models of red brick chimneys built by a former town engineer. A brick chimney built in 1882 was part of the once-thriving brickworks in Despatch. A Stegosaurus was discovered in Despatch in 1903. Sports memorabilia relates to South African athletes who grew up in Despatch. If you are planning a visit to the museum, check the current visitor information in advance.

A wider perspective: Nelson Mandela Bay

The wider destination of Nelson Mandela Bay extends beyond Despatch’s brickmaking history. Algoa Bay, the coastal region of Nelson Mandela Bay, has 40 kilometres of beaches. The destination’s different focuses can be distinguished: Despatch is known for its local industrial history, while Algoa Bay offers a coastal setting.

The Drostdy Museum at 50 Caledon Street in Uitenhage offers another cultural and historical perspective. It documents the historical development of Uitenhage and the surrounding districts. Its exhibits include toys, porcelain and clothing; the museum also houses an archival library. Alongside Despatch’s brickmaking history, Nelson Mandela Bay therefore offers regional history and a diverse museum collection as distinct themes. Route 67 also gives Nelson Mandela Bay its own distinctive focus: 67 public artworks symbolise Nelson Mandela’s 67 years of commitment to South Africa’s freedom.

Donkin Reserve offers views of Gqeberha, the harbour and Algoa Bay. Kragga Kamma Game Park offers a different kind of nature experience: it encompasses coastal forests and grassland inhabited by white rhinos, lions, buffalo, cheetahs, giraffes and zebras. Activities include guided game drives and self-guided wildlife viewing; each offers a different way to experience the park. Sightings of individual species are not guaranteed. Check the current arrangements with the operator in advance.

For the wider travel overview: Port Elizabeth.