Number 7 Castle Hill Museum

credit: https://www.bayworld.co.za/7-castle-hill

AVAILABLE: Guided Tours | Family Friendly | OPEN: Monday – Friday | MORE INFO: Museum Website | Facebook Page

Table of Contents

Introduction

Located in the heart of Port Elizabeth, the Number 7 Castle Hill Museum is a fascinating attraction for history buffs and those interested in experiencing life as it was in the 19th century. This historical folk museum, which dates back to 1832, is a National Monument that was restored by the Historical Society and opened as a museum in 1968.

About the Museum

The Number 7 Castle Hill Museum is a beautiful Georgian-style cottage that was built by an Irish clergyman, Reverend Francis McCleland, in 1827. The cottage is one of the oldest remaining dwelling houses in Port Elizabeth and is furnished in an early Victorian style (1840 to 1870) to reflect the domestic life of Port Elizabeth in the 19th century. The collection of mostly English furniture and domestic objects was largely donated.

The interior of the museum presents a picture of domestic life as enjoyed by an English middle-class family in mid-19th Century Port Elizabeth. The doll’s house, lace displays, and kitchen are particularly impressive.

The museum is a satellite of the Port Elizabeth Museum and offers general and special interest tours on request. Its recommended that visitors contact the museum to arrange a tour.

Interesting Facts

No. 7 Castle Hill Museum is regarded as one of the finest and oldest surviving settler cottages in Port Elizabeth. The property was purchased for three guineas (about R6.60 in those days). The picturesque building, which was originally constructed as a family dwelling, was built in 1827 by Rev McCleland, who was one of four thousand British settlers that arrived in the area in 1820.
The house attracts visitors from all over the world, leaving them enchanted, as the guest book proudly reflects. The old cottage is situated on Castle Hill Road and displays crisp white walls, yellowwood floors, and beams, and a restored slate roof. Other interesting features include a dollhouse, lace displays, and an impressive 19th-century kitchen.
For children, the museum offers an exciting opportunity to experience life in the 19th century. They can explore the old furniture, kitchen equipment, collect water from the well, old toys and dolls, the fairy garden, complete a treasure hunt, and make friends with the No. 7 family in the display room!

Physical Location

Conclusion

The Number 7 Castle Hill Museum is a must-see for anyone visiting Port Elizabeth. The museum offers visitors a glimpse into the life of an English middle-class family in the 19th century and showcases the history and elegance of that period. The museum’s interesting displays, beautiful architecture, and rich history make it a unique and unforgettable experience.