Melrose House Museum

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Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in Pretoria, the Melrose House Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian house museum. It is renowned for its eclectic design, as well as its role in the signing of the Peace Treaty of Vereeniging that ended the South African War.

About the Museum

Built between 1886 and 1888, the Melrose House Museum was the home of the Heys family for over 80 years. Commissioned by George Heys, a successful coach transportation businessman, the three-storey Victorian mansion features turrets, Dutch gables, and other architectural details that make it truly one-of-a-kind. The house was named after Melrose Abbey in Scotland, which George and his wife had visited on a delayed honeymoon.

The Melrose House Museum played an important role during the Anglo-Boer Wars, when it was used as British headquarters from 1900-1902. The Peace Treaty of Vereeniging was even signed around the dining table in the house. Although the house has undergone extensive restoration work, it remains structurally unaltered and features original items owned by the Heys family.

Today, visitors to the Melrose House Museum can explore the elegant rooms of the house, which are displayed as they would have looked in 1895. Antique furniture, hand-stained glass windows, and other original decor items help to transport visitors back in time. The museum also boasts a beautiful Victorian garden, which includes an herb garden and serves as a relaxing spot for visitors to unwind.

Interesting Facts

The Melrose House Museum offers monthly workshops on arts, crafts and herbs, making it a great destination for creative types.
The museum has a hall and outdoor venue available for function bookings, such as meetings and fairs.
George Heys’ car, a Minerva bought in 1920 that he did not actually like, can still be seen in the coach house on the property.
Every year, the Melrose House Museum hosts one of the most popular antique fairs in South Africa, featuring over 200 stalls selling collectables like jewellery, furniture, porcelain, and coins.

Physical Location

Conclusion

Overall, the Melrose House Museum is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in Victorian architecture and the history of South Africa. Its beautiful gardens, monthly workshops, and function spaces make it a versatile destination for visitors of all kinds. Whether you are a history buff or simply looking for a beautiful and relaxing place to spend an afternoon, the Melrose House Museum is definitely worth a visit.