Negosie Museum

credit: https://www.drakensbergexperience.com/listings/sandra-se-winkel-trading-store-museum/

Table of Contents

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, a hidden treasure awaits curious travelers seeking a glimpse of the past. The Negosie Museum, a living Trading Store museum fondly known as Sandra se Winkel. Unlike traditional museums, this unique establishment offers a captivating experience that takes visitors on a journey back to the 1960s, where original products are carefully preserved in their sealed packaging.

About the Museum

Step into Negosie Museum, and you’ll find yourself transported to a bygone era filled with nostalgia and historical significance. Located on the D275 (turn off near the Nest Hotel) in Cathkin Park Central Drakensberg, this Traditional Trading Store Museum captures the essence of a typical shop from the 1960s. Its charm lies in the meticulously preserved products and memorabilia that reflect the vibrant Indian and Jewish stores of the past.

As you wander through the museum’s corridors, you’ll be greeted by an extensive collection of original goods, all sealed in their original packaging. Marvel at the array of Oregon building materials, ceramics, glassware, retro clothing, and kitchenalia. Delight in the memories of yesteryears as you encounter vintage sweets, canned food, coffee, tea, rolls of cloth, needles, pins, pocket knives, razor blades, books, and even chewing tobacco—all reminiscent of a time long gone.

What sets Negosie Museum apart is its focus on preservation rather than commercialism. Many of the exhibits are not for sale, but rather exist to allow visitors to experience a tangible connection with history. Wander among the curated displays, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the sights, scents, and stories of a bygone era.

Interesting Facts

Negosie Museum’s founder and curator, Sandra Lemmer, unearthed this treasure trove in Lesotho. The items were part of a shop that had been closed for over three decades, and Sandra purchased the entire contents to preserve their historical significance.
The museum boasts an impressive textile collection, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of the past. From clothing to fabrics, the exhibits provide a captivating glimpse into the fashion trends and tastes of the 1960s.
For those seeking an authentic shopping experience, the museum features a range of retro items available for purchase. From vintage pieces to collectibles, visitors can take home a piece of history and cherish it for years to come.

Physical Location

Conclusion

Negosie Museum, also known as Sandra se Winkel, is a living testament to the beauty of preserving the past. Step inside, and you’ll be transported back to the 1960s, reliving childhood memories and exploring the charming traditions of the past. With its original products sealed in their packaging, this unique museum offers an enriching experience that sparks the imagination and fuels the soul. For history enthusiasts, collectors, and curious travelers alike, a visit to Negosie Museum is an unforgettable journey through time, making it an essential stop on your KwaZulu-Natal itinerary.