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Introduction

Located in the heart of the Northern Cape, Dunluce Museum, formerly known as Lillianville, offers visitors a captivating journey through time. This historic house, which remained in the Orr family for over seven decades, is now a satellite of the McGregor Museum. Step into the past as you explore the splendid architecture, original furnishings, and fascinating stories that make Dunluce Museum a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and culture seekers. Be sure to make a booking via the McGregor Museum as visits are by appointment only.



About the Museum

Dunluce Museum, originally known as Lillianville, was the cherished home of the Orr family from 1902 until 1975. Designed by D.W. Greatbatch and built in 1897 for Gustav Bonas, a prominent figure in the Griqualand West Hebrew Congregation and the Diamond Syndicate, this exquisite house became the symbol of a leading Kimberley family. In 1902, John Orr, founder of the renowned John Orr’s chain of department stores, purchased Lillianville, renaming it Dunluce after the ruins of a medieval castle in Northern Ireland, his birthplace.

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Today, Dunluce Museum stands as one of Kimberley’s most elegant buildings and operates as a satellite of the McGregor Museum. The museum’s allure lies in its ability to transport visitors back in time through its well-preserved fittings and furnishings, offering a glimpse into the changing tastes and lifestyles of a prominent family spanning over seventy years.

Interesting Facts

  • Dunluce Museum retains much of the original furniture and fittings left behind by the Orr family, providing a unique window into the past. Some of these items have their origins in the days when the Bonas family resided in the house, adding an additional layer of historical significance.
  • The red dining room within Dunluce Museum tells a tale of resilience. During the Siege of Kimberley, the room suffered a direct hit from a Long Tom shell, causing severe damage. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by the community during that tumultuous time.
  • Visitors are often fascinated by the original bathroom at Dunluce Museum. Complete with a shower-cum-bath and brass towel rails, this unique space offers a glimpse into bathing practices of the past, allowing visitors to imagine the rituals and routines of a bygone era.
  • Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding Dunluce Museum, where the reputed first private swimming pool in Kimberley can be found. This innovation reflects the Orr family’s penchant for luxury, adding a touch of grandeur to the historical setting.

Physical Location

Conclusion

Dunluce Museum stands as a living testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Kimberley. As you step through its doors, you are captivated by the elegant Victorian architecture, the carefully preserved furnishings, and the compelling stories of the Orr and Bonas families. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply looking for a unique experience, Dunluce Museum is a must-visit destination in the Northern Cape.

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