Blue plaque a shining jewel
NORSCOT - Cheers, jubilation and sparkling wines abounded at the unveiling of the blue heritage plaque at Norscot Manor Recreation Centre, hailing it the finest jewel in the Norscot crown.
The non-profit organisation Friends of Norscot Manor Recreation Centre was established to maintain the recreation centre to usher in a new era of heritage for the suburb. This was supported by Ward 115 councillor Chris Santana, as well as Region E Sports and Recreation manager, Elsie Mokgoebo,
Dave Bean, chairperson for the organisation began the ceremony by thanking all those who contributed to the success of the evening.
His biggest thanks, however, went to Luke Gonçalves from Sandton and Randburg Heritage Society. “What we are about to unveil was largely the work of Luke,” said Bean, asking Gonçalves to stand up as attendees erupted in applause.
Santana also expressed his gratitude for everyone’s selfless commitment to the Norscot Manor cause. “My thanks, obviously to the Friends of Norscot, but moreover to the community at large, because if it wasn’t for the support of a caring community, we wouldn’t have been able to acquire the heritage status.”
The plaque was then unveiled with the inscription reading: “Built on a grand scale for Ernst Eriksen and his wife Ethel, Norscot Manor began in 1936 as a cottage on a quiet farm. Thanks to his successful Ford motorcar dealership, Eriksen could afford a fine home produced by master-craftsmen, and suitable for lavish entertaining. Since 1982, Norscot has served as a lively and much-loved community centre.”
Gonçalves, initiator of the project, explained that the Norscot community rallied together to save the centre after rumours circulated that the State-owned land might be sold-off to private investors. The dereliction of the centre was a grave cause for Gonçalves as it held sentimental value for him having enjoyed the facility from a young age.
“The Sandton and Randburg Heritage Society then opted to help and facilitate with maintenance,” stated Gonçalves. “We decided that the best possible way to protect the site, was to apply for heritage status.”
Details: Norscot Manor Recreation Centre 011 465 2400.
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