HISTORICAL PAPERS
ABOUT
Currently consisting of 362 collections of personal and organisational documents, reflecting the struggle for national liberation in South Africa.
These papers and publications, many of which were banned under apartheid, document the major political events and turning points that culminated in the unbanning of political organisations and the release of Nelson Mandela and other leaders in February 1990.
The extensive International Defence and Aid Fund (IDAF) papers collection is organised into three categories, the legal assistance records, the welfare assistance program and the research and information outreach program.
Robben Island Ex- Political Prisoners General Sports and Recreation Committee collection or the Apple Box Archives reflect the prisoners experience. The collection includes personal letters, internal correspondence, minutes of meetings, reports, political education discussion papers, recreation plans, orders for equipment and other miscellaneous material which yield rich insights into prison life.
Letter To Robben Island
It is gratifying to know that letters from and to prison are easily accessible and can finally be read by everyone – this was prohibited a few years ago. Letters were often censored by higher authorities and wardens since they wanted to psychologically abuse the recipients of the letters. This letter will provide readers with a new and improved understanding of what it was like living in an apartheid jail year upon year.
Sharpeville
The Sharpeville Massacre of 21st March 1960 took place in the township of Sharpeville in which police fired on a crowd of more than 20000 black protestors.These events marked one of the first most violent demonstrations of the apartheid era that was prevalent in South Africa. Furthermore, this was an unquestionable turning point in the struggle for liberation.
1972 Summer Games
The Summer games of 1972 were hosted annually by the Robben Island Amateur Athletic Association (RIAAA). This event was testament of the enthusiastic nature of the prisoners. The document details the various sporting activities that took place.
About the Archive
The University of the Western Cape – Robben Island Mayibuye Archives are housed in main library of the campus. It was officially opened in June 2001, and contains unique and fragile documentary records of South Africa’s apartheid history and culture, as well as the freedom struggle.
The archives comprise of different forms of material categorised in collections of Historical Papers, Audio-Visual, Photographic, and Arts & Artefacts.
Operational Hours
Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed
Contact Us
Contact Us: (021) 959 2935
Visit Our Website: http://mayibuyearchives.org/
Resources of images: click here
Address: University Ave, Bellville, Cape Town, 7535