Durban History MuseumDurban Local History Museums

Our History

The Durban Local History Museums preserve and interpret the layered history of eThekwini — from early settlement and segregation to resistance and democracy — across eight sites throughout the city and its surrounds.

The Durban System

A defining thread through the city's history, the Durban System was a labour control mechanism that used municipal beer monopolies to finance township infrastructure and policing, shaping the lives of generations of residents. It is explored in depth at the KwaMuhle Museum.

Lamontville Township

Established in 1934 and named after Rev. Lamont, Mayor of Durban from 1929 to 1932, Lamontville is the oldest African township in Durban.

The Port of Durban

Engraving of Durban harbour seen from the Bluff, with sailing ships, 1891
The harbour from the Bluff, 1891.C. W. Methven, public domain. Source

Durban Harbour's evolution — from sailing ships to a modern container terminal — and the maritime heritage of tugs, whaling and navigation, is told at the Port Natal Maritime Museum.

Get in touch

For exhibitions, donations, curatorial matters or general enquiries, visit our Bookings & Enquiries page for contact details.

Our museums