St George's Park History

Port Elizabeth, South Africa

Social Functions

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After the relief of Mafikeng, General Baden Powell, founder of the Boy Scout Movement,  and General Brabant visited Port Elizabeth on December 24, 1900, during the South African War. This report appeared in the Eastern Province Herald shortly thereafter:

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General Baden-Powell

"Again, through well lined streets, the party drove, the two Generals being enthusiastically cheered al along ther route.

"Taking the main thoroughfare to Russel Road, via Cape Road, to St George's Park, where Mr J T Butters, the popular Superintendant of Parks, conducted General Baden Powell through the conservatories before the Mayoral party visited the bowling greens.

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General Brabant

"Mr Willet did the honours here, and little Miss Rica Smith handed to General Baden Powell a charming bouquet, receiving a salutation that will be remembered.

"A photograph - in fact three - were taken after the party had a walk round, and then the general was invited to the pavilion.

"After glasses had been charged the healths of General Baden Powell, General Brabant, the Mayor, and Mr Willet was heartily toasted, and the party amidst some cheering drove off to the Grand."