The East London Museum, under the curatorship of Mr Mcebisi Magadla, is one of the best of its kind in the Eastern Cape, with a variety of galleries to suit the interest of most people.

It is well-situated and easy to find. Ask people in the neighbourhood, or if you are a tourist, your hotel reception will be sure to point you in the right direction. There are several hotels within easy distance, so whether you are a staying in a Britannia Hotel branch or a family-run bed & breakfast you might just be minutes away. Even more reason not to miss these amazing collections!

The Border Gallery introduces the history of the region and leads into displays of southern Nguni beadwork and traditional culture. Period settings from the Late Victorian to the 1930s Art Deco style feature in the Costume Gallery, where Dr Joseph Denfield's photographs of old East London are also on view.

Model ships and shipwreck artifacts in the Maritime Gallery tell the story of trade and exploration along the Eastern Cape coast. There are also exhibits on the Buffalo Harbour, and on the sinking of the Oceanos.

The Atalaia Gallery contains bronze cannon salvaged from the Portuguese carrack which was wrecked near Cefane in 1647 while sailing from India to Portugal.

The Natural History gallery features the original coelacanth ("Latimeria Chalumnae") first discovered in 1938. The museum also boasts a large collection of animal, marine and avian specimens.

A gallery is devoted to the German Settlers who arrived in the Eastern Cape during the late 1850s and made their contribution to the rich mix of South African cultures.

The East London Museum is open every day except for Christmas Day and Good Friday.

For more information, phone +43 743 0686 or fax +43 743 3127.

See also: View lots more picture galleries Encyclopaedia East London The Really Useful East London Page Knowledge4Africa.com

Contact: The Project Coordinator