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Almost 40 years after the Humansdorp Museum was initially established at 17 Bureau Street, the museum has relocated to a much bigger space in Voortrekker Street under the slogan “preserving our past, shaping our future”.
As the doors to the Humansdorp Museum opened at its new location at 46 Voortrekker Street, Humansdorp on April 12, vice-chairman of Humansdorp Museum Association, Hendrik Potgieter, said that the grand opening coincides with the celebration of Humansdorp being founded 175 years ago by Matthys Gerhardus Human in 1849.
He further said that they cannot overstate the importance of the museum which was initially founded in 1985 by the Humansdorp Museum Association.
The Humansdorp Museum Association consists of a group of volunteers who are dedicated to preserving and managing the museum, as well as the Shell Museum in Jeffreys Bay.
Potgieter said that the museum has tirelessly safeguarded the town’s history, culture, and identity. He further said that the museum acts as a guiding light, illuminating the past for future generations to appreciate and learn from.
Potgieter said that as they embark on a new chapter at the new premises, they pledge to uphold the objectives of the Humansdorp Museum Association, ensuring that their heritage remains cherished and preserved.
“Humansdorp’s story is a testament to the enduring human spirit and the power of community. From its simple beginnings as a settlement for a church, the town has blossomed into a vibrant hub brimming with life, commerce, and culture. Every street, structure and resident, embodies a piece of our town’s narrative, a testament to resilience, innovation, and the strength found in collective effort,” said Potgieter.
He further said that the unwavering support and generosity of the Kouga Municipality throughout the process of relocating to their new premises is the result of a good working relationship.
Potgieter said that the municipality’s partnership has been a constant source of encouragement, resources, and guidance.
“Thanks to a combined vision and commitment between Kouga Municipality and the Humansdorp Museum Association, we stand here today in this magnificent new space, prepared to write a new chapter in our journey,” said Potgieter.
He further said that it is vital that the museum remains a vibrant space for dialogue, discovery, and illumination.
Potgieter said that it should serve as a platform to not only to celebrate triumphs but also to confront challenges and foster understanding and empathy across generations.
He further thanked the museum’s generous donors, with a special mention of thanks to Professor Renier Viljoen for his recent donation which included a captivating working replica of a 1902 Rambler automobile alongside a collection of artifacts.
In addition, Potgieter thanked the invaluable contributions of their dedicated staff members, with special thanks to treasurer, Petro Meyer, museum official, Cathy Potgieter, and personnel, Susan Hammond.
He said that the opening of the museum at their new premises was the first phase of their exciting museum project with plans to convert and equip additional space next door to fully support the museum’s objectives.
“This expansion will not only benefit the museum but will also create a space to welcome Tourism and the Chamber of Commerce, fostering a collaborative hub for our community,” said Potgieter.
“As we unveil the doors of the new Humansdorp Museum, let us renew our commitment to safeguarding our heritage, promoting our vibrant culture, and enriching the lives of our community members. May this institution forever stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of Humansdorp, a beacon that inspires and educates generations to come.”
Part of the museum’s short and long term goals include the following:
- Spreading awareness about the museum through large display boards
- Creating additional parking spaces and enhancing security measures
- Expanding the museum to create a space for tourism and the Chamber of Commerce
- Building a dedicated agricultural shed to house farm implements
- Constructing a replica of a small church, reflecting Humansdorp’s heritage
- Restoring the town’s waterwheel and exhibiting it at the new museum premises
To achieve their ambitious goals, they are seeking partnerships and donations from stakeholders. Kouga executive mayor, Hattingh Bornman said that the reopening of the museum marks not just the reopening of a building, but the reawakening of a collective story told through the artifacts and memories housed within the walls of the museum.
“May this museum be a place of learning, reflection, and inspiration, where every visitor can find a connection to our town’s rich cultural tapestry,” said Bornman. “As the museum stands as a beacon of the town’s unwavering spirit, we call upon community members to rededicate themselves to safeguarding our heritage, embracing our culture, and enhancing the fabric of community life.”
For more info contact Cathy Potgieter at 083 380 0574 or cathy.potgieter01@gmail.com.
