The historic house in Groutville, KwaDukuza, where Chief Albert Luthuli and
his family lived, was declared a national institution, and was officially
opened, as the Luthuli Museum, in August 2004 by former president Thabo Mbeki.
The opening of the museum attracted an audience of about fifteen thousand people
,who gathered in KwaDukuza paying tribute to the Chief who urged South Africans
as early as the late 1950's, to set an example for the world. Chief Albert
Luthuli predicted that South Africa, with all its cultural diversities would
emerge to show the world a new democracy. The museum honours the life of an
exceptional leader who spent most of his time in the service of humanity, and in
the fight for human rights and dignity.
The building which houses the Luthuli museum is recognized as an important place
in the history of South Africa's liberation struggle. It was here that Africa's
first Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Chief Luthuli often held late night meetings
with other ANC leaders like Nelson Mandela. Albert Luthuli was considered as a
leader of vision, courage and strong principles, and his advice and opinion was
often asked by various political figures from across the globe. This historic
museum co exists alongside the semi-rural community of Groutville, and creates
an interesting appeal that is unique to South Africa. Near the museum are the
statue of Chief Luthuli, his gravesite, and the site of his fatal train
accident.
Visitors to the museum can view a comprehensive and informative exhibition on
Chief Luthuli's life. The Interpretative Centre hosts regular temporary
exhibitions, as well as various educational programmes and documentary
screenings. Archival material is available to researchers. The museum also
features a beautiful and tranquil garden which hosts various corporate functions
and can accommodate up to two hundred and fifty guests. Guided tours of the
museum and the Luthuli Gravesite (gravesite on request) are offered. The Luthuli
Museum is also physically accessible by wheelchair and aims to make its
programmes and activities accessible from a seated position.