Observatory to share its history

September 24 is Heritage Day and South Africa will celebrate tradition and culture.

Urania Village will commemorate the day by sharing the history of Urania Village in Observatory.

“The aim of the event is to increase the awareness of the rich culture and heritage we have here in the east, we are also trying to raise funds to uplift the security of the community,” said Mrs Janine Hoffmann.

The event will be taking place in Observatory at 18 Gill Street.

Observatory is known to be the highest point in Johannesburg with an amazing view of the city and the Urania Village has a number of houses that are 100 years old and carry rich history.

The South African Institute of Electrical Engineers will also be opening their museum for the first time to the public.

The museum has the first South African telescope from 1907 and it will also be open for viewing.

A mini market and food stall with proudly SA products will be available.

“There will be a guided tour through the SAIEE Museum, Herbert Baker Library building and Union Observatory Directors House dating back to 1910,” said Mrs Hoffmann.

People are encouraged to bring their own meat, drinks and picnic blanket as a braai fire will be provided for those who would like to braai.

The Johannesburg Children’s Home, which is more than 100 years old and is also based in Urania Village, with Sandton and Eastern Metro SPCA will be charities to also benefit from this celebration.

“We are hoping to make this an annual gathering. We would like to share the richness of the history of the east especially Observatory and we hope our surrounding communities will come join and celebrate with us,” said Mrs Hoffmann.