The area known as District Six got its name from having been the Sixth Municipal District of Cape Town in 1867. Its earlier unofficial name was Kanaldorp, a name supposedly derived from the the series of canals running across the city, some of which had to be crossed in order to reach the District (kanaal is the Afrikaans for ‘canal’.)
About the District Six Museum
The ‘Hands Off District Six’ conference of 1988 led to the formation of the District Six Museum Foundation in 1989. The Foundation worked towards the establishment of the Museum which was launched on 10 December 1994 with its inaugural exhibition called Streets: Retracing District Six.
District Six Museum - Cape Town
The museum was established in 1994 to commemorate the forced relocation of over 60,000 people from the area during the apartheid era. The museum serves as a memorial to those who were forcibly removed, and to those who stayed behind and fought for justice.
District Six Museum
Housed in a former Church of the Province of South Africa building, which was built in 1865. The building was one of the few that remained standing after the forced removals.
The museum has a variety of exhibits and displays, including photographs, documents, maps, and oral histories. The museum also has a research centre, which houses archival material documenting the history of District Six and its people.
District Six Museum collection
Includes photographs, maps, and other documents that detail the history of District Six and its residents.
The museum also features an art gallery, which showcases the artwork of local artists and photographers. Visitors can also view a variety of temporary exhibitions on topics such as urban renewal, post-apartheid life, and the history of District Six.
The museum also offers educational programs for students of all ages, including guided tours, workshops, and lectures.
