Queens Fort Military Museum

The Queen’s Fort Military Museum, located in Bloemfontein, South Africa, offers a comprehensive overview of the military history of the Free State region from the 1600s to 1994. Established within a historic fort erected in 1848, originally named in honor of Queen Victoria, the museum provides insights into various military conflicts and developments that have shaped the area.

Queens Fort Military Museum

Church Street

Bloemfontein

9301

South Africa

+27 51 447 5478

Monday – Friday 08:00 – 16:00

Aircraft collection

103

2591

837

Atlas-Aermacchi MB.326K Impala II

Atlas-Aermacchi MB.326M Impala I

Dassault Mirage IIIRZ

Queen’s Fort Military Museum Historical Background

The fort’s construction was initiated by Major Henry Warden following the Battle of Boomplaats in 1848. Over the years, it has served multiple purposes, including functioning as military headquarters, a hospital, an asylum, and a prison. Notably, during the 1914 Maritz Rebellion, General CR De Wet and his supporters were held at the fort during their trial. In 1930, it became the headquarters of the Free State Command under the Union Defence Force.

Exhibits and Collections

The Queen’s Fort Military Museum‘s exhibits encompass a wide range of historical periods and events, including:

  • San and Basotho Conflicts: Exploring early indigenous warfare and interactions.
  • Difaqane: Delving into the period of widespread chaos and warfare among indigenous ethnic communities in southern Africa during the early 19th century.
  • Anglo-Boer Wars: Presenting artifacts and narratives from the conflicts between the British Empire and the Boer settlers.
  • World Wars I and II: Showcasing the involvement and contributions of the Free State in global conflicts.
  • Liberation Movements: Highlighting the history of liberation movements in South Africa, including Umkhonto we Sizwe and Poqo.

Outdoor displays feature an array of military hardware, such as armored vehicles, cannons, and an Impala fighter jet, providing visitors with a tangible connection to the machinery used in various conflicts.

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