A galaxy of architects – a virtual tour through Westpark Jewish Cemetery

The Johannesburg Heritage Foundation are inviting residents to join a virtual tour through Westpark’s Jewish cemetery on 26 July at 2pm for 2.15 pm.

Vice-chairperson at the foundation, Flo Bird said, “This tour was inspired by my encountering the graves of architects whose work I loved. Now Westpark Jewish Cemetery is very large and it stretches right up to the Westdene Koppie and I am averse to great treks uphill so although we had talked of an architectural tour through Westpark until we got the chance to visit without having to walk all around the many sections; we had abandoned the idea.”

She added that they were now able to take the tour in the comfort of their armchairs and would start with Issy Wayburne, “His was the grave which first caught my eye and he designed the OHEL which stands nearby. There are the great art deco specialists, Obel and Obel, responsible for the Barbican after their trip to the USA as well as JC Cook and Cowen Broadcast House and many more.”

Flo Bird and Brian McKechnie will be leading the tour – looking at gravestones, buildings and even some old building plans. A feast of fine buildings and a tribute to their creators.

These tours are open to all who are interested and interested individuals are notified that space may be limited. “There is a nominal fee of R40 for fully paid up members of the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation and you need to register with Eira. Non-members to pay R80 by EFT to the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation. If you have registered and paid you will receive the link on 24 July,” Bird said.

Details: If you want to join, and still need to pay your membership fee, please e-mail Eira on mail@joburgheritage.co.za

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