C. P. Nel Museum

The CP Nel Museum is a museum in the South African city of Oudtshoorn. It deals mainly with the role as the center of Oudtshoorn ostrich attitude.

Museum building

The main building of the museum was designed in 1906 by local architect Charles Bullock. It is built in a late Victorian style and formerly served as a high school for boys. Its arched sandstone facade is one of the best stone carvings in South Africa. A special feature is a 30 meter high tower in the middle of the building. The auditorium of the school damaligem designed JE Vixseboxse in 1913.

At the museum, Le Roux Townhouse, built in 1909 and a " bouquet Baron" was heard. It is largely in original condition. Since 1980, the CP Nel Museum belongs to the main building and Le Roux Townhouse to the national monuments of South Africa.

Collection

The museum was opened in 1972 and named after Colonel Charles Paul Nel, whose collection was in 1938 recognized by the Historical Monument Commission as a valuable and forms the basis of the exhibits. The CP Nel Museum is primarily concerned with the position as the center of Oudtshoorn ostrich attitude. A series of dioramas records the history of the ostriches and the influence of the ostrich farms in Oudtshoorn, the city and its inhabitants. The role of the city in 1900 as a global center of ostrich feather production, which made many people millionaires will also be illuminated. Other exhibits describe the cultural history and lifestyle of the people from the Little Karoo, is located in the center of Oudtshoorn. On the role formerly of Lithuanian Jews in Oudtshoorn recalls another part of the museum. A synagogue, which is used by the Jewish community, is part of the museum. Furthermore you will find a replica of a pharmacy from the early 20th century.