The Hector Pieterson Museum in Soweto's Khumalo Street recalls the events of 16 June 1976 and the ensuing Soweto Uprising. This museum in Soweto takes the visitor on a journey that includes the build up to a youth rebellion, the events of that fateful day and its aftermath.
Hector was killed at the age of 12 when the police opened fire on protesting students during the Soweto Uprising. For years, June 16 stood as a symbol of resistance to the brutality of the apartheid government. Today, it is known as National Youth Day — a day on which South Africans honour young people and bring attention to their needs.
If you are lucky enough, you might have Antoinette Sithle giving tours at the hector Peterson Museum. Antoinette is the sister to the now famous Hector. The famous photograph of Makhubo carrying Hector is the only one of him, unconscious, with sister Antoinette running alongside.
The museum, which opened on 16 June 2002, follows the chronology of the build-up to 16 June 1976, starting with the way tensions were building among Soweto's school children, with one school after another going out on strike.
Open times:
Mondays - Saturdays: 10:00 to 17:00
Sundays: 10:00 to 16:00
