Western Cape Archive behind-the-scenes

A treasure trove of original documents stretching back from the mid 1600s to the present. Join us for a tour of the Western Cape Archive, followed by a brief presentation of how best to use this phenomenal, free resource.

Our host and leader is Helen Joannides who is in charge of public programmes and outreach at the Archive. (Helen has a Masters in Heritage Studies and in 2010 set up the Western Cape Museum Educator Group.)

The Western Cape Archive has mainly government records spanning 400 years approx. We’ll hear how the archive has evolved and favourite stories from there.

We’ll glimpse some the huge holdings, including original documents from the VOC with the signature of the first commander of the Cape, Jan van Riebeeck – pictured below. 

We’ll visit the specialised Conservation Section. Mary Minicka, Head of Preservation, will show us what she and her colleagues are working on.

For the last 30 minutes Culture Connectors who are seasoned researchers can ask archivists in the main Reading Room to assist on a project (please let me know in advance). Meanwhile for newbies there’ll be a case study on how best to use this amazing, free resource, plus Q&A.

The group will be no larger than 20.

R300 paying pre April, then R400 per person

To book, get bank details and more info kate@cultureconnectsa.com

072 377 8014

Western Cape Archives and Records Service

72 Roeland St, Gardens

Cape Town, 8001

Free parking at the Archive off Drury Lane – image and map will be part of the briefing sent closer to the time

The Archive is free to visit, best make an appointment in advance – 021 483 0456

10am to noon

Do join Helen and myself for a light lunch, a few minutes walk away, Roots, Unit 25 Roeland Square, Gardens (ideally let me know in advance)

This tour will be repeated later in the year, do request a date.