CP Nel Museum

Situated in Oudtshoorn, South Africa, the CP Nel Museum provides an engaging overview of the town’s rich heritage, focusing on the ostrich trade and the cultural history of the Little Karoo region.

Prestigious Recognition

The CP Nel Museum was the first in South Africa to be honored with the Award of Accreditation in 1982. A year later, it received a four-star rating, highlighting its exceptional contribution to historical preservation.

Historic Le Roux Town House

In 1909, J.H.J Le Roux, a local farmer, had a magnificent sandstone town house constructed for his family. Designed by architect Charles Bullock, the house features a blend of styles that create a sense of complexity, playfulness, and opulence. Noteworthy are the Art Nouveau stained glass panels. Declared a National Monument in 1980, the Le Roux Town House is now part of the CP Nel Museum and is the only feather boom period house open to the public.

The Main Museum Building

Visitors from around the globe appreciate the CP Nel Museum for its stunning displays. The museum is housed in the former Oudtshoorn Boy’s High School, a sandstone building with a prominent clock tower, designed by Charles Bullock and constructed in 1906. This building, saved from demolition in 1972, dates back to the second "ostrich feather boom" (1900-1914) and was declared a National Monument in 1981. The museum’s origins trace back to the private collection of Colonel Charles Paul Leonard Nel, a prominent businessman and antiquities enthusiast.

Diverse Exhibits

The CP Nel Museum showcases a wide variety of exhibits, including:

* Ostrich Hall
* Bedroom
* Street Scene
* Military
* Store
* Synagogue
* Na Smit
* Music Room
* Dining Room
* Transport
* Natural History
* School Hall

For further information about the rich history and cultural heritage preserved at the CP Nel Museum, please visit our website. There, you can find detailed descriptions of our exhibits, visitor details, and upcoming events. We look forward to your visit!