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Tragically, like many families during the apartheid era, the Amlays lost their home in 1975 due to the Group Areas Act – a law that forcibly removed ‘non-white’ people from areas designated for whites only.
by FEROZ SHAIK
IF you’re looking to explore a rich tapestry of history, a visit to Amlay House in Simon’s Town is a must. Situated in King George Way, just a stone’s throw from the sea, this heritage museum offers a unique glimpse into the past of the vibrant communities that once called this area home.
The Amlay House, originally built in 1858, became part of the Amlay family’s legacy in 1935. Tragically, like many families during the apartheid era, the Amlays lost their home in 1975 due to the Group Areas Act – a law that forcibly removed ‘non-white’ people from areas designated for whites only. Despite this painful history, the family has fought to reclaim their heritage. According to Sheribeen Amlay, the current curator of the museum, ‘The family made a land claim for this house in 1995 and are still waiting for the claim to be finalised.’
‘My aunt Zainab ‘Patty’ Davidson, who was the previous curator, was asked to move in by the navy in 1995, who used it as naval offices from 1975 to 1990. My aunt still lives upstairs while I oversee the museum. The name of the house was Villa Zain but the navy changed it to Amlay House. My grandfather, Dawood Amlay, who owned the house was the first coloured councillor in Simon’s Town,’ added Amlay.
‘My aunt started the museum 30 years ago with just the two rooms. As it got popular and she got more information, the museum began growing. Before I took over, she ran the museum until the COVID-19 epidemic. Simon’s Town is where my heart is. I was born here and we had to move to Grassy Park due to the Group Areas Act. When I started visiting the museum, the memories started flowing, which led me to take over,’ said Amlay.
‘My aunt was invited to join a committee that was responsible for collecting the history of the people that were removed from Simon’s Town. She was also the co-founder of the Noorul Islam Historical Society together with the likes of Haji Bakaar Manuel – who was very passionate about tracing the history of the Muslim community in Simon’s Town – and that led to the start of this,’ he added.
Visitors to the museum can immerse themselves in the history of the Cape Malay, Indian, Coloured, Khoi and San communities of Simon’s Town. The museum’s extensive collection includes photographs that trace these communities back to the 1800s, as well as articles, displays, ornaments, memorabilia, and even a traditional bridal chamber complete with wedding outfits.
Amlay House is open seven days a week, from 9am to 3pm. Amlay is available to guide visitors through this journey down memory lane, offering a deeply personal and insightful look at the rich history of Simon’s Town and its diverse communities.
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This heritage site is more than just a museum; it’s a living testament to the resilience and enduring spirit of the people of Simon’s Town. So, if you’re in the area, take the time to visit Amlay House – you won’t just be stepping into a museum, but into the very heart of a community’s history.
For more information, call 083 462 5846 or email: sheribeena6@gmail.com
