Whose whispers echo through the Old House Museum? The Old House Museum in Durban isn’t just a collection of artifacts. It’s a living testament to the lives and stories of the Robinson family. The museum, opened in 1954, stands as a beautifully preserved time capsule. It offers a glimpse into the life of an upper-middle-class settler family in the 19th century. The house itself has a rich history. Originally a two-roomed wattle and daub cottage, it was purchased and transformed by John Goodrick in 1849. It later became the home of George Robinson, publisher of Natal’s first daily newspaper, the Natal Mercury. His son, Sir John, became Natal’s first Prime Minister. Mannequins dressed in period clothing bring the Robinson family to life. They showcase the fashion and style of the era. Among the museum’s treasures, a clock stands out. It survived the 1850 wreck of the Minerva, a ship carrying British emigrants. The clock, found undamaged in its packing barrel, washed ashore. The museum walls also display original 19th-century oil paintings. They depict scenes of Durban life and landscapes. An ox-wagon and post-cart represent the transportation of the time. Delicate china and intricate clocks offer further insights into the culture of the period. An embroidered cloth, autographed by local leaders, captures the political landscape of the past. The Old House Museum is more than just a museum. It’s a portal to Durban’s past, where the whispers of history come alive.
Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve
Is this where the city meets the sea? You might think so, standing at the edge of Beachwood Mangroves Nature