When the apartheid government declared District Six a ‘white’ area in 1965, more than 60 000 residents were relocated to the barren Cape Flats area. The original community was made up of a vibrant mix of individuals - freed slaves, merchants, artisans, labourers and immigrants.  Their forced removal threatened over a century of history and community life. The District Six Museum is a monument to the memories and lives of the neighborhood’s uprooted people.

The museum houses historical documentation, an artwork collection, audio-visual displays and a continually updated resources centre. Using these tools, as well as permanent and temporary exhibitions, the Museum is committed to telling the stories of the uprooting of the District Six community and the history of forced removals generally. The period of time from the late 1800’s / early 1900’s to the present day is covered, with topics ranging from day to day life to political activism.

In addition the Museum actively contributes to the reconstruction of the district.

The current permanent exhibition is titled ‘Digging Deeper’ and offers a rich visual experience which documents various aspects of life in District Six. Visitors are able to access the fascinating lives of ex-residents and learn more about their social, cultural, economic and political background.

The museum is definitely worth a visit for those who wish to learn more about the history of this important component of the Cape’s heritage.