Jeffreys Bay – To a casual passer-by, the Shell Museum at the corner of Diaz Road and Drommedaris Street in Jeffreys Bay might appear as just another building housing an array of shells.
Step inside, and you are transported into a world that celebrates the beauty and marvels of marine life – a testament to the passion and legacy of its inspiration, Charlotte Kritzinger.
The museum proudly showcases thousands of shells, sourced from across the globe, each meticulously displayed in glass cases. For the young and curious, magnifying glasses are available to observe even the minutest details of these natural wonders. But there is more to this museum than its striking shell collection; it tells a story of dedication and a deep-seated love for the sea.
Here you will find a collection of local shells with nicknames based on its appearance such as “babatoontjies”, “skurwejantjie”, “wit knopie”, “tossel”, and “visoog”.
Charlotte Kritzinger
Born in 1905, Charlotte Kritzinger moved from the Langkloof to Jeffreys Bay in 1945, where her coastal proximity ignited a lifelong passion for collecting shells. Her remarkable collection, which quickly gained national and even global recognition, became a source of admiration and exchange for enthusiasts worldwide.
Though Kritzinger passed in 1971, her will preserved her life’s work, stipulating that the collection be sold together as a single entity.
Thanks to the Kouga Local Municipality’s foresight and stewardship, the collection found its permanent home within the museum in 1988. However, the journey has not been without challenges. Losses and neglect marred the collection’s history until the Humansdorp Museum Association, led by dedicated volunteers like Petro Meyer, stepped in to revive its grandeur.
“It took years to build trust and ensure financial accountability,” Meyer shares. “But now, with the municipality’s steadfast support, we have expanded, secured, and reimagined the museum experience.”
This collaboration has preserved the past and breathed new life into Kritzinger’s vision.
Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum – More than shells
Today, the museum offers far more than its exceptional shell collection.
Through thoughtful exhibitions, visitors can delve into the mysteries of the ocean, learning about phenomena such as The Red Tide, the grandeur of whales and sharks, and even the culinary and economic significance of chokka, known as the “Gold of the Sea.” Engaging visuals and multimedia, including footage of surfing champion Mick Fanning’s dramatic shark encounter in Jeffreys Bay, ensure a visit here is both educational and unforgettable.
The museum also serves as a community hub, offering locally crafted mementos and a seasonal kiosk that supports the “skulpie-tannies,” who showcase their handcrafted shell items. Volunteers dedicate their time to keeping the museum vibrant, while others oversee its management and upkeep.
More than just a collection of marine artifacts, the Jeffreys Bay Shell Museum is a story of passion, perseverance, and community spirit. For those who visit, it promises to leave an indelible mark, inspiring awe for the wonders of the sea and admiration for the dedication that has kept these treasures alive for generations.
More information
The museum is open from Monday to Friday from 10:00 to 15:00 and Saturdays from 09:00 to 14:00. It is closed on p
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