Once a Court House and now a Museum it is the oldest public building in the central business district and was loop-holed during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. It bore witness to both the South African Wars and the Bhambatha Uprising. More recently it also served as a canteen and recruitment centre during the two World Wars and then later as a library before being converted into Durban's biggest history museum boasting two floors of exhibition space depicting aspects of the region's early history.
Visit the Old Court House Museum, just a stones throw from the City Hall, and stand in the building often visited by MK Gandhi who at the time was a young Durban lawyer experiencing the challenges of life under a colonial authority. Later explore at your leisure the Durban Room with its unique exhibits including a replica of an early sugar cane press, Henry Francis Fynn's Cottage, an early pharmacy and a haberdashery store. Make time to also wander around the costume room where you will be able to reflect on the fashion trends of Durban's many cultures and marvel at intricate craftsmanship.
For those doing research or perhaps seeking a more in depth perspective of Durban's history contact the enquiry section and view photographs and documents in the comfort of our study area.
Visiting Hours:
08:30 to 16:00 Monday to Saturday
11:00 to 16:00 Sundays and Public Holidays
Closed : Good Friday and Christmas Day
Entrance Fee: Free
Parking:
No parking is available on site, but parking garages are located close by and street parking is generally available within walking distance from the museum. Demarcated Taxi and Bus parking is available in front of the museum.
Facilities:
Lecture Room - suitable for talks and small workshops (maximum 40 people)
Male and Female Toilets
Toilets equipped with baby changing stations
Lift
