South African National Museum of Military History | Johannesburg

South African National Museum of Military History

The South African National Museum of Military History is one of the most significant military museums in Africa, located in Johannesburg, Gauteng. It serves as a memorial, research center, and exhibition space dedicated to South Africa’s military past, covering conflicts from the Anglo-Zulu War to World War II and beyond.

1. Overview of the Museum

Established: 1947, originally named the South African War Museum.

Location: Saxonwold, Johannesburg, near Johannesburg Zoo and Zoo Lake.

Purpose: The museum preserves, researches, and exhibits South Africa’s military history, including artifacts from the Anglo-Boer War, World War I, World War II, and modern military conflicts.

Role: It functions as both a museum and memorial, honoring South African soldiers who served in various wars.

2. Exhibits and Collections

The museum has a vast collection of weapons, vehicles, aircraft, uniforms, and historical documents related to South Africa’s military engagements.

A. Aircraft and Aviation Exhibits

One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of vintage aircraft, many of which saw action in World War II. These include:

Supermarine Spitfire – One of the most famous fighter planes of WWII.

Messerschmitt Bf 109 – A German Luftwaffe aircraft.

Hawker Hurricane – A British fighter aircraft.

De Havilland Vampire – A post-WWII jet fighter used by the South African Air Force.

Avro Shackleton – A long-range maritime patrol aircraft.

B. Armored Vehicles and Artillery

The museum features an impressive collection of tanks, armored vehicles, and artillery pieces, including:

Sherman Tank – Used by Allied forces in WWII.

T-34 Soviet Tank – One of the most iconic tanks of World War II.

G6 Rhino Self-Propelled Howitzer – A modern South African artillery system.

Field Guns and Anti-Aircraft Weapons – Including British and German models from both world wars.

C. Small Arms and Infantry Weapons

Rifles, Machine Guns, and Pistols from different eras.

Weapons used in the Anglo-Zulu War, the Anglo-Boer War, and the Border War.

A display of bayonets, swords, and melee weapons.

D. South African Military History Exhibits

Anglo-Zulu War (1879) – Artifacts, weapons, and uniforms from battles such as Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift.

Anglo-Boer War (1899–1902) – Weapons, maps, and items from British and Boer forces.

World War I and II – A significant portion of the museum is dedicated to South African soldiers who fought in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

South African Border War (1966–1989) – Focuses on the military conflicts in Namibia and Angola.

United Nations Peacekeeping Operations – Highlights South Africa’s involvement in peacekeeping missions.

E. Holocaust and War Crimes Exhibit

Dedicated to prisoners of war (POWs), Holocaust survivors, and war crimes tribunals.

Showcases uniforms, letters, and survivor accounts from South African soldiers who were captured in WWII.

F. Naval and Maritime Warfare

Although South Africa has a limited naval history, the museum displays items related to naval warfare, including torpedoes, ship models, and naval uniforms.

3. Memorial and Research Facilities

A. War Memorial and Remembrance Section

The museum is also a memorial to fallen South African soldiers, with dedicated sections honoring those who served.

A Roll of Honour listing the names of South African soldiers who died in wars.

B. Research and Archives

The museum houses a library and archives, making it an essential resource for military historians, researchers, and students.

Documents include war diaries, maps, photographs, and military records.

4. Events and Educational Programs

Military Reenactments and Living History Events – Occasionally, the museum hosts reenactments of historical battles.

School and Educational Tours – Programs designed for students and historians to learn about South Africa’s military past.

Guest Lectures and Special Exhibitions – Featuring military veterans, historians, and researchers.

5. Visitor Information

A. Location and Accessibility

The museum is located in Saxonwold, Johannesburg, near Jan Smuts Avenue, making it easily accessible from Sandton, Rosebank, and central Johannesburg.

Parking: Available on-site for free.

B. Opening Hours

Monday to Sunday: 09:00 AM – 04:30 PM

Closed on public holidays like Christmas and New Year's Day.

C. Entrance Fees

Adults: A small entrance fee applies.

Children, Students, and Pensioners: Discounted tickets available.

Guided Tours: Available for an additional fee or by appointment.

6. Nearby Attractions

Visitors to the museum can also explore nearby attractions, such as:

Johannesburg Zoo – Right next to the museum, home to a variety of animals.

Zoo Lake – A scenic park ideal for picnics and walks.

Constitution Hill – A former prison that is now a museum about South Africa’s political history.

Apartheid Museum – A must-visit museum documenting South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.

7. Conclusion

The South African National Museum of Military History is an essential destination for anyone interested in military history, aviation, and historical conflicts. Its extensive collection of artifacts, aircraft, armored vehicles, and war memorabilia makes it one of South Africa’s most informative and fascinating museums. Whether you're a history buff, student, researcher, or just a curious visitor, the museum provides a deep and insightful look into South Africa’s military past.