The Drostdy Museum, Swellendam

02/06/2026

02/06/2026

If you've ever been curious about the Friends of the Drostdy Museum, join us at our AGM to find out more!

🗓 24 June 2026 @ 18h00
📍 Tutu Hall, The Drostdy Museum, Swellendam

RSVP by 19 June by sending an email to [email protected]

17/05/2026

Join us in celebrating International Museum Day on 18 May!
Museums are more than places of history - they are spaces of memory, learning, culture, and community. On this special day, we invite everyone to visit the museum and celebrate the stories, heritage, and people that connect us all.
Enjoy FREE ENTRY for all visitors as we honour the important role museums play in preserving our shared past and inspiring future generations.
Bring your family and friends and come experience the rich heritage, exhibitions, and atmosphere our museum has to offer. We look forward to welcoming you.

15/05/2026

In honour of International Museum Day, annually observed on 18 May, museums proudly host their High School Speech Contest each year.
This meaningful initiative affords young learners the opportunity to reflect upon and eloquently express the value of museums as spaces of heritage, education, memory, identity, and community development through insightful and thought-provoking oratory.
This year’s contest was a tremendous success, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all participating learners for their confidence, passion, and exceptional speeches.
Congratulations also to our winners, who will advance to the Regional Speech Contest later this year, with the possibility of qualifying for the Provincial Contest thereafter. We wish them every success as they continue this exciting journey.
A sincere thank you to our educators, adjudicators, sponsors, parents, and community members for your continued support in empowering the voices of our youth.
Through initiatives such as these, museums continue to inspire dialogue, preserve heritage, and empower the next generation of thinkers, storytellers, and leaders.
Winners
1st Place: Petri Du Toit - Swellendam High
2nd Place: Adna Ahmed - Swellendam High
3rd Place: Sindisiwe Flathela - Swellendam High

08/05/2026

Happy International Donkey Day to our beloved museum stars, Fiona and Tanner!
Today we celebrate these gentle and lovable companions who bring warmth, curiosity, and joy to everyone who visits our museum. With their calm nature and charming personalities, Fiona and Tanner have become a treasured part of our museum family and a favourite among both young and old alike.
Here at the museum, Fiona and Tanner are more than just animals - they are part of our living heritage and bring joy to every visitor, especially the children who light up when they come to say hello.
On this special day, we honour not only Fiona and Tanner, but donkeys everywhere for their quiet companionship and the special place they hold in communities and hearts across the world.
Be sure to stop by and give our long-eared friends some extra love today!

29/04/2026

28/04/2026

What an unforgettable celebration at our Freedom of Expression Day, held on Freedom Day.
Our hearts are full as we reflect on a truly vibrant and inspiring day at the Donovan Julies Art Gallery in Suurbraak. Children arrived with bright energy and open imaginations, filling the space with beautiful paintings that spoke of hope, identity, and freedom. One of the true highlights of the day was seeing our youth proudly present their artwork - a powerful reminder that every voice, no matter how small, deserves to be heard.
A special thank you to the Suurbraak Library for being present and supporting literacy and creativity within our community - your involvement added so much value to the day.
We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsor, Swellenfruit Packing - Pty Ltd whose generosity made this event possible, and to every member of the Suurbraak community who showed up, participated, and shared their gifts so freely. Your presence turned this event into something truly special.
Together, we painted a beautiful picture of unity, diversity, and joy - a true reflection of our Rainbow Nation.
Here's to many more moments where creativity brings us together.
All for one and one for all!
Donovan Julius contemporary Arts

21/04/2026

You’ll notice that the Friends of the Museum's new logo features an antique rose.

This rose is more than just a visual — it symbolises living heritage and continuity.

Within the museum grounds is the historic Mayville Rose Garden, where old garden roses have been growing for generations, alongside newer varieties added over time.

In many ways, this reflects the museum itself — a place where history is preserved, but also continues to evolve.

The rose captures that living, growing, community-driven spirit and the idea that heritage, when cared for, continues to flourish.

You may also notice that the logo has shifted — from a museum building to the rose.

That shift is intentional.

Because while the museum holds the history, it is the Friends who help bring it to life.