The Lowveld region now has its first military museum dedicated to the Bush War, also known as the Border War, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the lives of soldiers who served between 1966 and 1989.

The Sector 10 Bush Pub and Military Museum, located in the White River CBD, is now open to the public and offers free entry to South Africans. It opened its doors on June 1.

Exhibits recreate daily soldier life

“This museum is about the soldiers of the Bush War and represents the different people who served during that period. It has nothing to do with the World Wars or the Anglo-Boer Wars. It is specifically about the Bush War and the soldiers who were protecting the South African borders,” said museum founder Nico Vermeulen.

“People who visit the museum will be able to experience how the Bush War soldiers lived. They can see the different uniforms they wore, the beds they used and the original equipment that was used during the war,” he said.

Vermeulen said the museum also seeks to give visitors an authentic experience of what daily life was like for soldiers by serving some of the food eaten during the period on similar plates to those used by soldiers.

Veterans share wartime stories

“We have opened a platform where veteran soldiers can come and tell their stories every Friday. We believe there are people who have incredible stories about their experiences in the army that need to be heard,” said Vermeulen.

“We cater for all races and everyone is welcome to come and learn. The Bush War involved people from different backgrounds, including African and Coloured soldiers, some of whom were promoted to senior ranks during that time,” he said.

Vermeulen said the museum is open throughout the week from 10:00 to 17:00 and is situated at 20B William Lynn Street in the White River CBD.