Learners and accompanying adults explore the exhibitions at the 1860 Heritage Centre during the school's holiday A Day at the Museum programme. The immersive experience introduced young visitors to South Africa's shared history through interactive exhibitions, cultural demonstrations and storytelling.
History stepped beyond the pages of textbooks when children from across Durban gathered at the 1860 Heritage Centre for a winter school holiday programme combining education, culture, and hands-on experience.
The 1860 Heritage Centre, an agency museum of the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, hosted "A Day at the Museum" for participants aged eight to 18. The initiative offered an immersive journey into the stories, traditions, and sacrifices that shaped the country's democracy.
The programme began with a guided tour of the Centre, where learners explored exhibitions focusing on Indian indenture, the historic role of Curries Fountain, and the pivotal contribution of women to the liberation struggle. Participants also toured dedicated galleries honouring Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, and Chief Albert Luthuli. Through original artefacts, photographs, and historical displays, the youth gained a deeper appreciation of the figures who influenced modern South Africa.
