Visit the Simons Town Museum: A Deep Dive into Local History
After our hike on Saturday, we stopped at Penguino Coffee Shop to relax and enjoy some refreshments. While the café provided a cozy atmosphere, the main highlight of our day came from our visit to the Simons Town Museum, where we got to explore the town’s fascinating history.
Angelique and I, both passionate about history, looked forward to seeing the museum. Housed in the Residency—a building from 1777—this museum provides a glimpse into the past. The Residency once served as the winter home for the Governor of the Dutch East India Company and later became a hospital, school, and police station. In 1982, the museum moved to this historic building, preserving its deep connection to Simons Town, the Dutch East India Company, and the Royal Navy.
You can learn more about the museum’s history and exhibits on their official site: Heritage – Simons Town Museum.
Why You Should Visit Simons Town Museum
We found the Simons Town Museum to be an excellent stop for anyone interested in history. The exhibits tell captivating stories of Simons Town’s role in the world wars, the forced removals of people, and the prisoner-of-war camp that once operated here. One of the standout exhibits focuses on Just Nuisance, the Great Dane who became the only dog officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. His story remains a cherished part of Simons Town’s history.
Just Nuisance: Simons Town’s Beloved Great Dane
At the Simons Town Museum, we learned about Just Nuisance, the famous Great Dane who captured the hearts of many in the town. Born on April 1, 1937, Just Nuisance “joined” the Royal Navy in 1939, where he served alongside sailors at HMS Afrikander. His friendly and mischievous antics, such as following sailors around and even napping in the petty officer’s bed, earned him widespread affection. He became a favorite among the crew. Sadly, after a car accident in 1944, Just Nuisance passed away, but his legacy endures at the museum.
Important Details for Visiting Simons Town Museum
You can visit the Simons Town Museum from Monday to Thursday between 10:00 and 15:00, and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 to 13:00. The museum charges an affordable entry fee of R40. It remains closed on Sundays and public holidays, so plan accordingly.
Unwind at Penguino Coffee Shop After the Museum
After our enriching visit to the Simons Town Museum, we enjoyed a relaxing break at Penguino Coffee Shop. The café’s peaceful setting offered the perfect atmosphere for unwinding. We savored delicious food and drinks, making it an ideal spot to reflect on the day’s history-filled adventure.
Our Next Adventure: Hiking at 22 Waterfalls in Porterville
Our next adventure takes us to 22 Waterfalls Porterville this Saturday for a refreshing hike. Stay tuned for updates about our exciting journey!
For more travel stories and past adventures, check out our previous blog post. Thank you for reading! Don’t forget to subscribe to our blog for more travel tips. Follow us on TikTok and YouTube to catch our latest videos. Need help with travel bookings? We’ve got you covered!
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