Described by the Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) as an "invaluable treasure trove", join an enlightening tour of Joburg's historic Museum Africa in Newtown on Sat, Jul 12 from 10:00. Book your tickets here. 

The building that today houses Museum Africa dates back to 1913, when it was erected as Joburg's first purpose-built fruit and vegetable market. Now, in the heart of the Newtown cultural precinct, the museum is rich with stories and artefacts that reflect the earliest days of the city's history.

A guided walkabout with Johannesburg Heritage Foundation (JHF) guide David Fleminger and Museum Africa’s Image Curator Kamo Maleete Mokgalaka will illuminate the fascinating evolution of this heritage building, as well as the museum's standout collections.

One highlight of the tour is Traditional Dresses of Southern Africa, an exhibit unpacking how clothing goes beyond mere function to reflect deeply rooted cultural, spiritual, and political meanings. Also on show is a series of drawings by Barbara Tyrrell – an artist and ethnographer who travelled around South Africa in a van in 1944 to research and record the traditional dress and ornaments of rural people. Other exhibits to explore include Johannesburg Firsts, The Cultural Heritage of South Africa, and Negotiating Democracy, one of Museum Africa's newer additions. 

This museum morning with the JHF ends with a special viewing of original architectural drawings of Joburg’s early built environment – a rare peek into the city’s design history. The group is then invited to head to Capello coffee shop at the nearby Newtown Junction to share reflections over coffee and a snack (for your own account). 

From rare archival materials to hidden Joburg stories and thoughtfully curated exhibits, JFH's tour of Museum Africa on Sat, Jul 12 promises to be an enlightening morning. Tickets cost R180 per person for JHF members and R290 per person for non-members. The tour starts at 10:00 and will last approximately two hours. Book tickets online or email mail@joburgheritage.org.za or call +27 60 813 3239 to reserve your spot. 

Note: Secure underground parking is available at Newtown Junction (100 Carr Street). From there, exit the mall, turn right past the Market Theatre, then right again onto Lillian Ngoyi Street. Meet in the Museum Africa foyer.