The McGregor Museum
Why Kimberley Matters
Kimberley has played an extraordinary role in South Africa's history for more than 150 years.
From diamonds and the Great Diamond Rush to war, political change and the growth of the international diamond industry, the city has helped shape modern South Africa.
These pages are an informal journey through the people, places and events that made Kimberley remarkable. Make yourself comfortable and enjoy exploring the story of one of South Africa's most fascinating cities.
The former Kimberley Sanatorium, completed in 1897, now houses the McGregor Museum. Originally built as a health resort, it later served as Rhodes' headquarters during the Siege of Kimberley before becoming one of South Africa's leading regional museums. Photo: © Richard Jones, 2014
Discover the McGregor Museum
The McGregor Museum is one of South Africa's finest regional museums and one of Kimberley's most rewarding cultural attractions. Through its exhibitions, collections, and research, the museum tells the story of the Northern Cape—from prehistoric times and the region's first inhabitants to the Diamond Rush, the Siege of Kimberley, and South Africa's journey to democracy.
Located just a few minutes from Kimberley's city centre, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to discover not only the city's remarkable past but also the wider natural, archaeological and cultural heritage of the Northern Cape. Named after Alexander McGregor, whose generous bequest helped establish the original museum in 1907, the institution has grown into one of South Africa's leading centres for historical, archaeological and natural science research.
Visitor Information
Location: Atlas Street, Belgravia
Walking: A 350 m walk from The Solomon
By car: Free parking in the grounds of the museum.
Duration: Allow one to two hours to explore the museum
Extras: The Duggan-Cronin Gallery is located next door and can easily be visited on the same outing.
Contact The McGregor Museum:
Tel: 053 839 2700
Email: enquiries@museumsnc.co.za
A Building Rich in History
The McGregor Museum occupies the former Kimberley Sanatorium, one of the city's finest Victorian buildings. Completed in 1897 at the instigation of Cecil John Rhodes, it was designed by architect D. W. Greatbatch and constructed by the firm of Church and McLauchlin. Originally established as a health resort, the sanatorium was intended to take advantage of Kimberley's dry climate, widely believed to benefit patients with respiratory illnesses, particularly tuberculosis.
Exploring the Museum
The McGregor Museum's permanent galleries explore an extraordinary range of subjects, making every visit different.
The Ancestors Gallery traces millions of years of human history in southern Africa, from early hominin evolution to the archaeological evidence left by the region's earliest inhabitants.
The Siege Gallery vividly recreates everyday life during the Siege of Kimberley, while the Journey to Democracy exhibition explores the Northern Cape's contribution to South Africa's struggle for freedom.
Other galleries examine the region's remarkable natural environment, geology, wildlife, military history, education, religion and the diverse communities that have shaped the Northern Cape.
The museum's scientific collections are equally impressive, encompassing archaeology, palaeontology, geology, zoology, botany, ethnography, physical anthropology and the internationally important Wildebeest Kuil rock engraving research.
Together, these collections make the McGregor Museum one of South Africa's leading regional research institutions as well as one of its most enjoyable museums for visitors.
The Duggan-Cronin Gallery
Located in The Lodge, immediately next door, the Duggan-Cronin Gallery houses one of the world's most important collections of early twentieth-century photography documenting the indigenous peoples of southern Africa. Compiled by A. M. Duggan-Cronin over several decades, the collection provides a remarkable visual record of cultures, traditions and communities during a period of rapid social change. Many visitors choose to explore both attractions on the same day.
More Than One Museum
The McGregor Museum is far more than a single building. It manages numerous museums, heritage sites and archaeological locations across Kimberley and the Northern Cape, preserving thousands of artefacts, archives, fossils and scientific specimens. Its researchers continue to make important contributions to archaeology, geology, biodiversity, and social history, while its educational programmes introduce new generations to the province's rich heritage. You can find more information about the museum's many sites and activities on its website.
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.