Genadendal Mission Museum
The museum collection is housed in a building, which was erected in 1838 as the first Teachers’ Training College in South Africa. The contents of the museum were declared a National Cultural Treasure on 8 March 1991. Most of the collection on display has been produced and used at this mission station. Genadendal (1738), the oldest mission station on the continent of Africa, was one of the most progressive communities in the Cape during the 19th century. The Moravian Missionaries and members of the congregation, apart from fulfilling their religious duties, carried out pioneering work in the fields of education, music, printing, vernacular architecture, furniture making and local industries.
There are 15 exhibition rooms with a unique collection ranging from household equipment, musical instruments, medical equipment, tools, books, printing presses, the oldest fire engine and the oldest pipe organ in the country.
Museum School Service
School groups are welcome to contact the education officer for conducted tours – slide and video shows on historical, environmental and conservation topics.
Visiting hours:
Mon- Thurs: 9:00 - 13:00 : 14:00 - 17:00Fri: 9:00 - 15.30
Saturday: Mornings, Sundays on special request
phone 028 251 8220