Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum
Why Kimberley Matters
Over the years, we have noticed that many of our guests—whether visiting Kimberley for business or leisure—have wondered why this remarkable city has played such an important role in South Africa's history over the past 160 years.
These pages invite you on a coffee-table journey through Kimberley's past, from the discovery of the Eureka Diamond in 1867 and the Great Diamond Rush, through wars, political change and the rise of the world's diamond industry, to the city we know today. They are not intended to be an academic history, but rather an enjoyable introduction to the people, places and events that shaped Kimberley.
So, make yourself comfortable, pour a cappuccino or a cup of chai, and enjoy exploring the remarkable story of one of South Africa's most fascinating cities.
A Museum Built in Memory
Standing in Chapel Street, the Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum, built in 1907, is one of Kimberley's finest examples of Edwardian civic architecture. Although the museum's collections moved to the former Kimberley Sanatorium on Atlas Street in 1976, this elegant building remains an important landmark in the city's architectural and cultural history.
The Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum in Chapel Street.
Visitor Information
Location: 18 Chapel Street (2km from The Solomon)
Visiting: Only by appointment with the McGregor Museum.
Contact:
Tel: 0538392722/0538392700
Email: enquiries@museumsnc.co.za
Fergus Carstairs Rogers' Design
The building was designed by Fergus Carstairs Rogers, one of Kimberley's most distinguished architects, whose work helped shape much of the city's architectural character.
Constructed in red brick with finely detailed stone dressings, the museum reflects the architectural traditions of late Victorian and Edwardian Britain. Decorative gables, carefully proportioned windows and an impressive entrance combine to create one of Kimberley's most attractive public buildings.
Together with the neighbouring Methodist Church and Methodist Manse, it forms one of the few surviving groups of historic public buildings that still convey the appearance of early twentieth-century Kimberley.
Art in Stone
One of the building's most distinctive features is the sculptural work decorating its pediment.
The two reclining female figures were created by Achille Bocciarelli, an Italian sculptor and owner of the local brickworks.
Their classical style reflects the civic pride and optimism that characterised Kimberley's public architecture during this period.
From Chapel Street to Atlas Street
For almost seventy years, the Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum served as Kimberley's principal museum.
By the late 1960s, however, its collections had outgrown the available space. Plans for a purpose-built extension were being considered when the historic Kimberley Sanatorium on Atlas Street became available.
The museum relocated to its new home on 22 November 1976, where it continues today as the McGregor Museum, one of South Africa's leading regional museums. Although the collections moved, the original building remains an important part of Kimberley's heritage and a lasting memorial to Alexander McGregor.
Continue Exploring Kimberley
Whether your interests lie in history, culture, dining, shopping, entertainment, or simply discovering somewhere new, we hope these guides help you make the most of your time in Kimberley. If you're planning a visit to the City that Sparkles, Solomon Edwardian Guest House offers elegant accommodation in the historic suburb of Beaconsfield. Ideally situated for business and leisure travellers alike, The Solomon provides a comfortable base from which to explore.