President Pretorius Museum

About President Pretorius Museum

The President Pretorius Museum is a historical site located in Potchefstroom. It was the original home of Marthinus Wessel Pretorius, the first president of the old South African Republic (ZAR) and the founder of the city of Pretoria. Built around 1868, this beautifully preserved homestead reflects early Cape Dutch architecture and offers a look into 19th-century urban Boer culture. The Main House: A Cape Dutch style farmhouse featuring traditional white plaster walls, a thatched roof, and green doors and windows. Inside, you will find original furniture, personal items, and old documents from President Pretorius. Historical Rooms: The front living room hosted three important state dinners in the mid-1800s. It was also where General Piet Cronje held the first war council of the First Anglo-Boer War. Address: Thabo Mbeki Way, Mooiriver, Potchefstroom