Media Statement
Tuesday, 19 November 2024
For Immediate Release
Celebrating 120 Years of Zoo Lake – A Legacy of Inclusivity and Community
Zoo Lake, one of Johannesburg’s most beloved public spaces, is celebrating its 120th anniversary which is set to be marked on 21 November 2024. This iconic park, which lies adjacent to the Joburg Zoo, is a historic testament to the city’s commitment to offering green spaces for all its residents.
The land on which Zoo Lake and the Joburg Zoo stand was granted to the Johannesburg Town Council in March 1904 by the business partners of the late Hermann Eckstein, a prominent banker and mining magnate. This 200-acre tract of land came with a specific mandate: the Deed of Gift clearly stated that the park was to be open for use by all the people of Johannesburg, regardless of race. This commitment made Zoo Lake the only multi-racial park in Johannesburg during the dark years of apartheid—a remarkable legacy that stands as a beacon of inclusion and equality.
While the then Johannesburg Town Council developed 54 hectares of the land to establish the Joburg Zoo, the remaining area was transformed into what we know today as Zoo Lake. The park was designed around an artificial lake, to which a central fountain was added in 1937.
The fountain, a Johannesburg heritage symbol, was built to commemorate the coronation of King George VI, and was subsequently named the Coronation Foundation.
Over the years, this space has become a sanctuary for relaxation and recreation, offering a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Whether it’s picnicking by the lake, rowing a boat, hosting a braai, or walking the pathways with family and friends, Zoo Lake remains a cherished escape for residents and visitors alike.
A Legacy of Access and Freedom
Access to Zoo Lake during the apartheid years was a symbol of resistance and hope. While many public spaces were racially segregated under apartheid laws, Zoo Lake, due to its unique founding deed, was one of the few places in Johannesburg where people of all races could come together and enjoy nature in a shared environment.
For Black South Africans, especially during the height of apartheid, Zoo Lake was a rare, and often cherished, space of freedom. It was a place where families could gather, children could play, and communities could connect - unified by the simple act of enjoying public space.
The park became a quiet but powerful statement of what was possible in a segregated society. For many, the ability to visit Zoo Lake meant more than just a day out in the sun; it symbolised a burning hope, for equality and a better life.
Today, Zoo Lake stands as one of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo’s (JCPZ) most iconic and well-loved spaces. From boat trips and dog walks to taking in the beauty of the musical fountain, this park continues to be a vibrant part of our city’s life.
As we mark this significant 120-year milestone, we are reminded of the enduring power of public spaces to bring people together and create lasting memories.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
For media inquiries, please contact: Jenny Moodley on 082 803 0748 or on email at jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com
Tuesday, 19 November 2024
For Immediate Release
Celebrating 120 Years of Zoo Lake – A Legacy of Inclusivity and Community
Zoo Lake, one of Johannesburg’s most beloved public spaces, is celebrating its 120th anniversary which is set to be marked on 21 November 2024. This iconic park, which lies adjacent to the Joburg Zoo, is a historic testament to the city’s commitment to offering green spaces for all its residents.
The land on which Zoo Lake and the Joburg Zoo stand was granted to the Johannesburg Town Council in March 1904 by the business partners of the late Hermann Eckstein, a prominent banker and mining magnate. This 200-acre tract of land came with a specific mandate: the Deed of Gift clearly stated that the park was to be open for use by all the people of Johannesburg, regardless of race. This commitment made Zoo Lake the only multi-racial park in Johannesburg during the dark years of apartheid—a remarkable legacy that stands as a beacon of inclusion and equality.
While the then Johannesburg Town Council developed 54 hectares of the land to establish the Joburg Zoo, the remaining area was transformed into what we know today as Zoo Lake. The park was designed around an artificial lake, to which a central fountain was added in 1937.
The fountain, a Johannesburg heritage symbol, was built to commemorate the coronation of King George VI, and was subsequently named the Coronation Foundation.
Over the years, this space has become a sanctuary for relaxation and recreation, offering a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Whether it’s picnicking by the lake, rowing a boat, hosting a braai, or walking the pathways with family and friends, Zoo Lake remains a cherished escape for residents and visitors alike.
A Legacy of Access and Freedom
Access to Zoo Lake during the apartheid years was a symbol of resistance and hope. While many public spaces were racially segregated under apartheid laws, Zoo Lake, due to its unique founding deed, was one of the few places in Johannesburg where people of all races could come together and enjoy nature in a shared environment.
For Black South Africans, especially during the height of apartheid, Zoo Lake was a rare, and often cherished, space of freedom. It was a place where families could gather, children could play, and communities could connect - unified by the simple act of enjoying public space.
The park became a quiet but powerful statement of what was possible in a segregated society. For many, the ability to visit Zoo Lake meant more than just a day out in the sun; it symbolised a burning hope, for equality and a better life.
Today, Zoo Lake stands as one of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo’s (JCPZ) most iconic and well-loved spaces. From boat trips and dog walks to taking in the beauty of the musical fountain, this park continues to be a vibrant part of our city’s life.
As we mark this significant 120-year milestone, we are reminded of the enduring power of public spaces to bring people together and create lasting memories.
ENDS
Issued on behalf of Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo
For media inquiries, please contact: Jenny Moodley on 082 803 0748 or on email at jmoodley@jhbcityparks.com
