Melrose House Museum, located in Central Pretoria, is a beautifully preserved Victorian mansion that played a significant role in South African history. Built in 1886 by the wealthy businessman George Jesse Heys, the house is known for its intricate architectural details and opulent interiors. Melrose House is historically important because it was the site where the Treaty of Vereeniging was signed in 1902, ending the Second Anglo-Boer War.
Key Features of Melrose House Museum:
1. Historical Significance: The signing of the Treaty of Vereeniging on May 31, 1902, inside Melrose House marked the end of the South African War (Second Anglo-Boer War) between the British Empire and the two Boer Republics. The museum features rooms set up to reflect this moment in history, including the original table used during the treaty negotiations.
2. Victorian Architecture and Interiors: The house itself is a splendid example of Victorian architecture, with lavish furnishings, stained glass windows, and original decor. The museum showcases a collection of period furniture, porcelain, art, and carpets, giving visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of Pretoria’s wealthy elite during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
3. Exhibitions: In addition to permanent displays of the house's original furnishings, the museum hosts temporary exhibitions related to Pretoria’s history, the Second Anglo-Boer War, and Victorian-era life. Visitors can also view items related to the treaty signing and the war, including military memorabilia.
4. Garden and Grounds: The museum is set in well-maintained gardens, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of Pretoria. The outdoor area is often used for events, guided tours, and educational programs.
5. Cultural and Educational Programs: Melrose House Museum regularly offers guided tours for school groups and tourists, providing detailed historical context about the Anglo-Boer War and Pretoria’s role in South African history. The house is also a venue for cultural events, lectures, and art exhibitions.
Contact Details for Melrose House Museum:
Address: 275 Jacob Maré Street, Pretoria Central, Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: +27 (12) 322 0420 / +27 (12) 358 1750 (Pretoria Museum Services)
Email: museum@tshwane.gov.za
Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, from 08:00 to 16:00 (Closed on Mondays and public holidays)
Entry Fees: There may be a small entrance fee, and guided tours can be arranged in advance.
Melrose House Museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through South Africa’s Victorian past and the key events that shaped the country’s history. Its well-preserved interiors, historical artifacts, and educational programs make it an enriching experience for both history buffs and casual visitors alike.
The Village In Hatfield provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Hatfield, Pretoria / Tshwane. The Village in Hatfield is a delightful guesthouse offering a cluster of separate units, perfectly appointed for a comfortable stay in the heart of Pretoria. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Bed and Breakfast in Hatfield - as the name suggests, provides bed and breakfast accommodation, but also self catering in Hatfield, Pretoria / Tshwane in the Gauteng province. We are close to the Pretoria CBD and bustling Hatfield is a 10min walk away. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Queensrest provides self catering accommodation in Queenswood Pretoria in Gauteng. Centrally situated in the established suburb of Queenswood, just a short distance from the Pretoria CBD. 6 Self-catering units to choose from. (Units sleep 4 - 6 adults). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Gratia Cottage offers 2 self-catering cottages located in the suburb of Waverley in Pretoria/Tshwane. The sunny and spacious self catering cottages can sleep up to 6-7 guests and exudes a homely appeal. The kitchens are fully equipped... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Swan-Lake Luxury Guesthouse offers bed and breakfast accommodation in Montana Park in Pretoria, Gauteng. Montana Park is a quiet leafy northern suburb of Pretoria which offers easy access to the Pretoria CBD. Our bed and breakfast is set in a beautiful... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Fralande Lodge offers 2 self catering accommodation units in the Pretoria suburb of Waverley in Gauteng. (The units sleep 4 and 6). Overlooking a beautiful garden where one can find peace and tranquility. We have our guests best interest at heart... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
The Aviary offers self catering accommodation in Waterkloof Glen in the south-west of Pretoria. We offer two units, The Sparrow (sleeps 2) and The Swallow (sleeps 4). Each with en-suite bathrooms (shower and bath), HD flat screen with full package DSTV. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Die Pastorie Guesthouse/Gastehuis provides bed and breakfast accommodation in Silverton to the east of Pretoria / Tshwane in the Gauteng province. We cater for the discerning corporate and leisure traveler. The guesthouse consists of seven luxurious... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Leopardsong Manor offers bed and breakfast accommodation in the Centurion Golf Estate in Centurion, Gauteng. Our bed and breakfast facility in Centurion Golf Estate has been noted for its stylish interior and spacious rooms overlooking one of the best... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Dunkelly offers self catering accommodation in the Centurion suburb of Irene. Situated between Pretoria and Midrand in the quaint, picturesque and secure village of Irene, Dunkelly can be found nestled in a country village steeped in history... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.