Established in 1959 and is the largest and oldest non-governmental (NGO) organisation involved in heritage conservation.
As one of the oldest established towns in South Africa, it is important to look not just at the history of Swellendam itself, but how it came to be. *As published in Treasures of Swellendam, 2018 Version.
We aim to encourage the public to preserve our cultural and natural heritage; to stimulate pride and personal interest in conservation by encouraging group projects and voluntary efforts to conserve and improve the environment; to set the work of the SHA on a sound economic basis by raising funds and using such funds for conservation projects and the stimulation of others to conserve and preserve our cultural and natural heritage; to co-operate with all relevant authorities and organisations in pursuit of the aims and objectives of the SHA.
JoinCome explore the heritage, stories and people of Swellendam.
An out-of-doors visit to the historic farms of Rhenosterfontein and Westfield near Port Beaufort.
Heritage day picnic on Rheenendal Farm.
We are super thrilled to announce that our guest speaker this month is none other than Belinda Gordon co-author (with another favourite of SHA), Professor Mike De Jongh.
An instructive presentation on the cause of the 1914 Rebellion and its outcomes by John Illsley - 19 June 2025
Check it out