Built in 1853, Joubert House is though to be the oldest dwelling in Montagu. In 1981 this historical monument was on the verge of collapse after the devastating floods of January that year, was saved from demolition by the Montagu Museum Board of Trustees and lovingly restored to its former glory. In 1983 this fine example of rural Cape gabled thatched house was officially opened.

As a house museum, Joubert House portrays the typical country lifestyle of the 1850’s. Of special interest is a small side room which houses a comprehensive collection of toys from bygone days. Pride of place belongs to a unique collection of individually numbered handmade porcelain dolls. The costumes of the dolls are historically correct down to the last detail, including underclothing and leather shoes.

In 2003 Joubert House celebrated its 150th anniversary.

INDIGENOUS MEDICINAL PLANT GARDEN

Over the past 22 years the museum has been researching and recording the rich oral history and traditional uses of medicinal plants, in the Montagu district, passed down by the Khoikhoi, San and settler farmers from Europe.

The garden which was established behind Joubert House contains most of the more than 120 plants that have been researched and published in Herbal Remedies of Montagu Museum.

The research project of the museum is well known and is of great interest to South African and overseas botanists and pharmacologists, who regularly visit the garden.

Visit Joubert House and the medicinal plant garden in Long Street, Montagu.

Open from 08h00 to 17h00 on weekdays, and from 10h00 to 12h00 on weekends and Public Holidays.

Tel: 023 614 1774
Fax: 023 614 1950
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