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Walking around and admiring vintage cars was like being in wonderland for petrol heads as visitors were entertained at the James Hall Museum’s outdoor vintage car show on Saturday, 28 May, to celebrate International Museum Month. 

Different car clubs showed off their collections and local artists and DJs kept the music pumping. Visitors licked their lips from the delicious food and refreshments on sale. A thrilling bus ride on the historic 1952 London Bus was also on offer.

Mandla Nkomo, the assistant curator at the James Hall Museum, said events like the car show aim to get more people into the museum and create awareness about the quality of historic motors on display.

“It’s the first time we’re hosting this event. Annual events were killed by Covid-19 and we’re trying to get more traffic into the museum. It is also an opportunity to showcase the museum’s collection.”

The James Hall Museum of Transport (JMHT) is the largest museum of land transport in South Africa. It gives visitors a rare glimpse of Johannesburg’s transport history dating back over a century. It is the most comprehensive land transport museum in South Africa with thematic displays and exhibits in the various exhibition halls.

The museum’s collection includes animal-drawn transport, early motoring, steam vehicles, bicycles, and public transport. The oldest car on show is a 1900 Clement Panhard, which doesn’t have a reverse gear. Former mayor Cllr Max Goodman’s mayoral car from 1957 to 1970 (Rolls Royce) is also on display.

Shawn Venter, from the south of Johannesburg, displayed his Ford collection, which includes a modified 1980 Escort 1600 sport, a 1965 Cortina MK1 that has been part of their family since the 70s, and a 1969 Escort MK1. Venter’s love for cars started at a young age when he saw his grandfather and father restoring cars. Today, he restores cars for a living.

Melinda Stuurman said it was an amazing experience and her favourite part was the bus ride. “I would definitely encourage others to visit the museum.” 

The James Hall Museum of Transport is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 to 16:30. Entrance to the museum is free, but donations are welcome

Issued by City of Johannesburg