Amongst the treasure trove of entrepreneurs that were conceived by this unlikely town, was as equally unlikely character: James Somers Kirkwood. Initially he arose to prominence due to his wit, showmanship, bonhomie and vitality in the auctioneering business. Why these character traits created the “Kirkwood Show” was James’ ability to convert even the unlikeliest and most mundane of sales into a skit, a parody or a comedy. Perhaps entertainment would have been a more rational vocation for him. The trait that most defines a comedian is that of intelligence and Kirkwood probably possessed it in spades. However, what he is best remembered for today, is his vision for the development of the Sunday’s River. Recession, drought, vision before its time as well as the discovery of diamonds at Dutoitspan, all drove potential investors to forsake the local developments and instead to seek fame and fortune in Griqualand West. Mores the loss for Kirkwood and Port Elizabeth.

Main picture: James Somers Kirkwood