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Comment on the proposed Charles Darwin monument on the Town Jetty in Simon’s Town

The City is proposing the erection of a bronze bust of Charles Darwin on the Town Jetty, off Wharf Street, in Simon’s Town.

Comment Period: 16 November – 15 December 2024

Phases

Phases overview

Phase 1: Comment on the proposed Charles Darwin monument on the Town Jetty in Simon’s Town

Comment on the proposed Charles Darwin monument on the Town Jetty in Simon’s Town

Comment on the proposed Charles Darwin monument on the Town Jetty in Simon’s Town

16 November 2024 22:00 - 16 December 2024 22:00

The proposed monument would commemorate Charles Darwin’s significant visit to the Cape of Good Hope in 1836, where discussions with astronomer Sir John Herschel contributed to his foundational work on the Theory of Evolution by Natural Selection.

The bust would depict Darwin at age 27, as he appeared during his journey on the HMS Beagle. We will position it on a granite plinth, facing inland, with the sea and Simon’s Town Naval Docks in the background.

In terms of section 17 of the Local Government: Municipal Systems Act, Act 32 of 2000, you can submit comments and recommendations to the municipality in respect of the proposed monument.

Contact us For more information and general enquiries, email naming@capetown.gov.za.

11 issues

unknown author2 years ago

unknown author2 years ago Although Darwin’s theory of evolution has been modified over time, it remains fundamental to the study of the natural world. Darwin changed not only the way we see all organisms, but also the way we see ourselves. Darwin’s theory represents a foundational pillar of modern science that stands alongside relativity, quantum mechanics and other vital support structures. Just as Copernicus cast the earth out from the centre of the universe, the Darwinian universe displaced humans as the epicentre of the natural world. In the painting of Darwin as a child he holds in his hand a Lachenalia species that came from the Cape. Of the 13 ports where the HMS Beagle called on its homeward voyage from South America to England, it stayed longer at Simon's Town than anywhere else except the Galapagos Islands. He visited various sites across the greater City of Cape Town including the Sea Point Contact zone, and beyond that Paarl Mountain, Franschhoek and Houwhoek.

unknown author2 years ago Firstly his not South African and secondly theory not proven yet as of 2024. So what has he actually done. This is a evolution is a religion and not fact of science. No kind jump has ever been recorded. Adaptation is possible but that is as far as it goes still stay same kind. Humans were not fish before. We have not honoured South Africans but we want to honour foreigners. Charity begins at home.

unknown author2 years ago

unknown author2 years ago I would like to support the proposal to have the bronze Bust of Charles Darwin placed on the Jetty in Simon's Town to mark the landing of the Beagle during it's round the world voyage of discovery. Cape Town was an important stop on the voyage and played a critical role in his understanding of the process of Evolution. Other ports have significant memorials to Darwin and it is time Cape Town marked it's involvement in the research. This will also be a good marker for tourists visiting the peninsula.

Robert Ketteringham2 years ago Even as a local Capetonian generally interested in science and the scientific method, and a fan of Charles Darwin's pursuit of the truth - I was previously unaware of his visit to Cape Town. This request for comment has prompted me to learn more about the context of his discoveries, as well as the colonial situation in Cape Town at the time of his visit. I'm sure that the proposed bust will prompt even more people to learn some more of our history. I think whether or not any individual agrees with validity of his theories, we can all agree that they have been highly influential on mankind and our understanding of our place in the greater, complex natural world. A bust marking the important visit, without necessarily endorsing the person or his theories can give locals and visitors, believers and skeptics alike an opportunity to learn about his observations of the natural world, the history of the scientific method and consequently the development of science and technology, and the impact that technology has allowed human civilisation to have on the natural world in turn.

unknown author2 years ago

Carmen Anderson2 years ago

unknown author2 years ago I'm the organiser of the Cape Mining Club, a network of over 1,000 members who hold regular networking events. We hosted one event where this initiative was presented to the club. The club agrees that Simon's Town holds a rich maritime history and cultural significance, yet one of its most notable connections to global history remains underrepresented. During his historic voyage aboard HMS Beagle, Charles Darwin, the father of evolutionary theory, made a brief but meaningful stopover in Simon’s Town. This moment, while fleeting, ties the town to one of the most transformative figures in science. We support the erection of a bronze bust of Charles Darwin in Simon’s Town to honour this connection and to celebrate the town’s role in the global voyage that reshaped humanity’s understanding of the natural world. Rationale Historical Significance. Darwin’s voyage aboard HMS Beagle (1831–1836) is a cornerstone in the history of science. His observations during this journey laid the foundation for his groundbreaking work, On the Origin of Species. By marking Simon’s Town as part of this journey, the town becomes a tangible link to this transformative period in human history. Recognizing this connection reinforces Simon’s Town’s role in global historical narratives. Educational Opportunity. A bronze bust of Darwin would serve as an educational focal point for residents and visitors alike. It could be accompanied by informational plaques detailing Darwin’s visit, the Beagle’s voyage, and the significance of his work. This initiative would promote scientific literacy and foster a sense of pride in the town’s contribution to intellectual history. Tourism and Cultural Enrichment. The bust would add to Simon’s Town’s cultural attractions, drawing visitors interested in history, science, and heritage tourism. This addition could stimulate local businesses and encourage longer stays by tourists, particularly those with an interest in natural history. A Tribute to Curiosity and Discovery. Darwin represents curiosity, exploration, and the pursuit of knowledge—values that resonate universally. The bust would symbolise these ideals and inspire future generations to explore and question the world around them, aligning with Simon’s Town’s legacy as a gateway to discovery. Erecting a bronze bust of Charles Darwin in Simon’s Town is an opportunity to celebrate the town’s connection to a pivotal moment in history. This project will enhance the town’s cultural and educational landscape while honouring the spirit of discovery that defines both Darwin’s legacy and Simon’s maritime heritage. We urge the community and stakeholders to support this initiative, ensuring that Simon’s Town remains a beacon of history, learning, and inspiration.

Sadia Nanabhay2 years ago

unknown author2 years ago

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