Imagine stepping back in time. You are standing before the Musé d’Histoire in Port Louis Mauritius. This isn’t just any museum. It’s the oldest museum in Mauritius and one of the oldest in southern Africa.
The Musé d’Histoire’s story began in 1826. Two naturalists Julien Desjardins and Louis Bouton proposed a museum to Governor Sir Lowry Cole. Their vision materialized on October 14 1842. The Desjardins Museum opened its doors. It was housed in the old Royal College.
For 42 years the museum thrived there. In 1880 the Mauritius Institute was established. Governor Sir George Ferguson Bowen oversaw the move. The Desjardins Museum’s collection transferred to the new Mauritius Institute Building in 1885. This impressive building a partial replica of the Colombo Museum in Sri Lanka was constructed between 1880 and 1884 by British architect M Mann.
The Musé d’Histoire wasn’t just a repository of artifacts. It became a hub for studying Mauritius’ unique biodiversity. The collection focused on marine fauna and birds of the Mascarene Islands. It houses the most complete dodo skeleton ever discovered. Etienne Thirioux a barber unearthed this treasure in 1904. The dodo’s remains underscore the museum’s importance. It is vital in the scientific and historical study of Mauritius’s natural heritage.
Over the years the Musé d’Histoire’s collection expanded. It now boasts over 35 000 specimens. Many are unique representing species extinct today. There are 578 specimens of Mauritius’ endemic flora. The museum also houses a vast documentation center. It contains thousands of written photographic filmed illustrations and recordings. These materials document the natural history of the Mascarene region.
In 2000 the Musé d’Histoire received national museum status. It solidified its role as a key institution. The museum plays a key role in preserving and promoting Mauritius’ natural heritage.
Today as you stand before the Musé d’Histoire you are standing before a testament to history. It is a window into Mauritius’ incredible past. It showcases a wealth of knowledge and wonder. You are invited to step inside and explore. Discover the wonders of Mauritius’s natural history.