Williston Museum

Originally the Williston museum had been erected as a church building for the so called coloured community. The property had been purchased in 1879 for twenty five pounds sterling and it was the following year that Missionary P Sterrenberg chaired the meeting which commissioned the building of the church. Minutes from the meeting saw a committee formed to raise funds to build the church and also saw the dimensions set down as follows, the church would be fifty feet long, seventeen feet wide and ten feet high inside.

The building itself was dedicated on 29 March 1884 by Missionary P Sterrenberg and Minister S H Kuhn. The additional two wings were added to the building in 1942. In 1975 the church moved to a new building and the old one became a school building. Today the building serves as a Museum with the theme, Our Mission Inheritance.
Some of the displays in the museum include hand made chisels and tin stencils which were used by Cornelius de Waal, the local Sandstone Gravestone maker from the nineteenth century. Some of his workmanship is also on display in the museum.

The museum's exhibits cover a diverse range of topics, from artifacts related to the daily lives of early inhabitants to historical documents and photographs. One notable feature is its collection of agricultural tools and equipment, which highlight the importance of farming and livestock in the area's development. Additionally, the museum showcases traditional crafts, clothing, and household items that reflect the cultural practices of the local population. The exhibits are thoughtfully arranged to provide a narrative of how the town has evolved over time and to illustrate the challenges and achievements of its residents.

Beyond its permanent collections, the Williston Museum also plays an active role in community engagement and education. It hosts events, workshops, and educational programs that aim to deepen visitors' understanding of the region's history and cultural heritage. The museum's commitment to preserving local history and fostering a sense of pride in the community makes it an important cultural landmark in the Northern Cape, offering a valuable resource for both residents and visitors interested in exploring the rich heritage of Williston.

For more information please contact, the Karoo Hoogland Tourism Office:
Tel: +27-23-5711265
Or email: willismuseum@telkomsa.net

Physical Address: 12 Lutz Street, Williston.