Tour a refurbished Victorian mansion that played an important role in South African history at the Melrose House. This luxurious manor was built by a wealthy Pretoria entrepreneur and was where the Second Boer War ended in 1902.
During the 19th century, the South African province now known as Transvaal declared itself independent of British control. The Second Boer War ensued and the British invaded Pretoria in 1900. Lord Roberts, the head of the British forces, seized Melrose House and used the building as his headquarters. In 1902, the Treaty of Vereeniging was signed here, ending the war. Learn about the Second Boer War at the permanent exhibition in Melrose House.
Step inside and examine the building’s elegant interior. The house was built in 1886 by George Jesse Heys, a rich businessman who owned a line of coaches. Colorful wallpaper, period furniture and shiny woodwork line the rooms, which have been refurbished to appear as they did at the end of the 19th century. Find an antique pool table in one of the mansion’s many rooms.
Admire the cream-colored façade of the Victorian mansion from the grassy front lawn. Walk by the fountain near Melrose House’s entrance and note the intricate molding along the building’s roof. In the stables see a tea garden and café. Order a light lunch and drink tea in the shade.
Cross the street to find Burgers Park. Completed in 1892, it is the oldest park in Pretoria. Walk along the curved paths to see a fish pond, a band stand and a statue of Thomas Francois Burgers, Transvaal’s fourth president.
Guided tours of Melrose House are available by appointment. Check the museum’s website for details on events at the house, including chamber music concerts, antique fairs and temporary art exhibitions.
Melrose House is located a few blocks south of Church Square. Arrive by bus or on foot from anywhere in the city center. There is no on-site parking at Melrose House so if you are driving, try the north side of Burgers Park for a parking space.
The museum is closed on Mondays. There is a fee to enter.