Birth of the Observatory

Abstract

As explained in his letter⁽⁹⁴⁾ of 8 March, 1822, to Barrow, and illustrated by a map¹ accompanying the letter (Figure 17), “A is the spot recommended for the site of the Observatory. It is a small elevation adjoining several Farms & belonging to Government — excellent stone for building can be easily obtained here. The view is very commanding, having the whole of Table Bay to the North west — the nearest point of the shore being about one mile and a half distant. Table Mountain bears S.S.W. distant nearly two miles. The north point passes between Blueberg & Cannon Hill and the South point near the west side of False Bay…. The situation is well watered & contiguous to respectable Farm Houses where the usual necessaries of life can be easily purchased. The distance to Cape Town is nearly three miles — the road very good — were a small wooden bridge erected over Liesbeek’s river which at times is hardly fordable, it would secure an easy intercourse with the Town…. The view from Mr Dekenah’s mill is certainly more extensive than from A but the objection to it is its contiguity to sand whereas it affords a shelter to A…. The space of ground between the road passing A to the Liesbeek’s river would make an excellent small summer and winter garden quite sufficient for the residents of the Observatory. The property however in question is in the possession of Mr [W.A.] van Schoor and might be easily purchased. Along with the Maps I have sent specimens of the Stone found upon the Site”.²