Full steam ahead at De Poort
2008-04-03
Lise Beyers
THE development of the first phase of the long awaited heritage village in Paarl South, De Poort, is well on its way to completion. De Poort (meaning Gateway) has been a dream of heritage and community inspired people in the Drakenstein for the past ten years. This dream is to establish a unique tourist attraction in the area, which will portray the rich cultural history and diversity of the valley and draw more tourists to the area to bring economic benefit to many. A little more than a hundred years ago, Paarl was a sleepy village, but once the rush to the gold and diamond fields of the north started, the town almost instantly became the transport capital of South Africa. In its heyday, 87 businesses were directly linked to this flourishing wagon industry, which put Paarl on the map as an economic giant. Local historians have felt that this integral part of the town’s history needs to be acknowledged. The cart and wagon industry had no ethnic barriers, and the whole community was involved and prospered through it. And because of this legacy, De Poort was born. The first phase, which is currently being completed, consists of a multifunctional workshop with craft bays where craftsmen will demonstrate their skills and also sell their products. An exhibition of original carts and wagons which were built in Paarl, will be on display. These carts have been kept from the public eye for decades in a municipal store in Groenvlei. The store is also home to many important artifacts depicting days gone by, and these too will be looking for a home. On the mezzanine level, there will be a seminar room which will be made available to the public to offer workshops, as well as more space for craftsmen. The building has been roof high for a considerable time, and now it is just a matter of time to complete the trimmings and the complex will then be opened to the public Designed by architect Karin Ström, the De Poort building has been constructed to integrate the classic factory buildings of yesteryear, with a modern approach for today and tomorrow. It has also been specifically designed to blend into the environment, and its colour will be that of Paarl Rock. Chairperson of the non-profit community project, Frances Graves, said that they are delighted with the progress of the construction, and hope to open De Poort’s doors to the public by September this year. “We want to recreate a bit of yesterday, but at the same time use this opportunity to look at tomorrow. Thus we want to create as many opportunities for the public, local crafters, SMME’s and entrepreneurs as possible. “The idea of De Poort is to represent the industrial heritage of the area, and through this involve the entire community of Paarl. “We want people from all over to come and have fun at De Poort, and in doing so catch a glimpse of life as it was in our fine valley.” The Phase 1 building will house a coffee shop and an outside entertainment area for children. A highlight will also be cart and wagon rides under the supervision of experienced drivers. De Poort has been made possible by a generous grant from the National Lotteries Distribution Trust Fund, as well as generous assistance from the Drakenstein and Cape Winelands District Municipality. “We are very grateful to the many members of the public who have offered donations in kind or have undertaken aspects of construction at cost price, as well as our Board of Volunteers for their hard work. “We are currently still in a financial shortfall, and are calling for funds to complete the mezzanine level.” Once the first phase has successfully been completed, more phases are planned to eventually have a complete working village for all to enjoy. Anyone who is interested in getting involved with the project or fund raising, can contact the De Poort office at 021-863-5009 (office hours) or Frances at 021-863-3902.
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