The National Museum in Bloemfontein is continuing to reach out to communities, bringing the museum to residents’ doorsteps. One of the ways this is achieved, is through the Mobile Museum, a unique truck-based exhibition.
The initiative is part of the museum’s education department, exhibiting various rich heritages, delving into both cultural and natural history.
Such an exhibition was made accessible at the Trevor Barlow Library on 18 February, for the Reënboog Old Age Home in Heidedal. The elderly were brought into contact with Africa’s rich heritage, with presentations about human evolution, along with stories from the fields of biology, ecology and biodiversity.
“I believe this is a historic and important occasion to bring history and culture directly to those who cannot visit the museum themselves. This educational outreach programme brings the museum to the people, rather than vice versa,” said Alberto Thompson, council member of the National Museum.
He said the exhibition paved the way for this year’s planned outreach programme to educate community groups, the elderly and adults from all backgrounds. The programme is interactive and makes provision for participation by members of the community.
The Mobile Museum programme has been ongoing since 2017, visiting schools and showcasing the significant role of the museum.
This year, the National Museum marks 147 years of existence since the 1870s, when its collections and displays comprised mainly rarities from around the world. It was established on 20 July 1877 and opened to the public on 20 May 1878. It is an important centre for research, education and exhibitions.
