WATCH: Springs Museum expands with indoor space showcasing hidden history
Residents can now view rare mining and military artefacts indoors.
The Springs Mine and Military Museum launched its indoor museum on June 16, an exclusive event that allowed various stakeholders to view the exhibitions on display.
Among the attendees were the various donors of the pieces in the exhibition, including representatives from the South African Air Force Museum.
The South African Air Force Museum’s communications officer, Major Kedibone Moagi, said she felt honoured to be part of the ‘soft launch’.
“It is important for us to support the museum because our support broadens knowledge and helps the community understand that this museum is a part of a much larger picture of this country’s military history.
“This is where it should all begin: the knowledge of military history. I believe we can donate more and educate and empower the community through these exhibitions,” she said.
The museum’s curator, Errol Brits, said the indoor museum preserves the small pieces that form part of the town and country’s mine and military history. He added that visitors will learn about local people who took part in the war.
@springsadvertiser The Springs Mining and Military Indoor Museum was soft launched on June 16. Various stakeholders and donors were present to support and view the exhibitions. #springs #fyp #museum #Military #exhibition #ekurhuleni #viraltiktokvideo
“They will see the finer details of uniforms, ornaments, medals, and other items. That is what they can expect to see. On the outside, visitors will see military equipment used by the South Africans,” said Brits.
He added that the museum will be a learning experience for the community, especially the younger generation. Brits highlighted the importance of young people visiting the new museum, stating the youth must know about the history of their town.
“So people must look after what we collect because it will be used in the future. That is why I invest time in Scouts and the Sea Cadets. We want to get young people involved so that they understand the history of our town, where we come from,” he said.
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The Girl and Boy Scouts from Springs Central Air Scouts marvelled at the exhibitions on display.
“As young people, seeing these exhibitions makes us appreciate our country’s rich history. What stood out for me was seeing all the bullets and their different sizes,” he said.
Another scout, Metilda van Loggerenberg, added, “It is significant for us to observe these exhibited pieces as scouts because the Scout movement originated during the Boer War.”
Peter Labuschagne, an 86-year-old who was a Sea Cadet in 1950, said the walkabout was a trip down memory lane. His navy cap, which he wore during his time in the military, was a piece on display.
“Today brought back memories of the old days and how we used to be. I went to Saldanha Bay in 1955 to do my military training.
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“I spent 11 months there before I worked as an apprentice. Young people today do not know what heritage is. They must be taught heritage because you cannot erase history,” he said.
Brits said the museum is open to the public and the town’s tourists, adding that visitors will learn about the origins of Springs.
He also called on the community to donate historical mining and military equipment-related items.
“People can visit the museum on Saturdays and Sundays from 09:00 to 12:00,” said Brits.
