Western Cape Archives and Records

Hidden within the bustling city of Cape Town, the Western Cape Archives and Records building whispers tales of centuries past. It’s not just a building. It’s a keeper of memories, holding over 45 kilometers of documents, maps, photographs, and oral histories. The Western Cape Archives and Records preserves the very essence of the Western Cape’s story. Imagine holding a document signed by Jan van Riebeeck himself. Here, within these walls, such treasures are a reality. The Western Cape Archives and Records houses government records dating back to 1651, a continuous thread connecting the present to the earliest days of the Cape. The archives aren’t frozen in time. They constantly evolve, receiving new records every year. By law, Western Cape government departments must transfer historically valuable records after 20 years. The Western Cape Archives and Records also accepts donations from private individuals and organizations, enriching the tapestry of the province’s history. The Western Cape Archives and Records is a public resource, open to everyone. It’s free to explore and research, whether you’re tracing your family history, delving into a historical topic, or seeking legal documents. The archives are located at 72 Roeland Street, and welcome visitors during weekdays and even on the first and third Saturday of each month. Beyond the records themselves, the Western Cape Archives and Records offers educational programs. They host presentations and behind-the-scenes tours. You can even uncover the past through their “Unboxing the Past” program. This program focuses on researching Cape slavery, offering a hands-on learning experience with primary sources. The Western Cape Archives and Records truly brings history to life.