Welcome to the Amathole Museum's new website! The launch coincides with the commemoration of the death of Huberta: the famous wandering hippopotamus exactly 81 years ago. This is not mere coincidence - Huberta is the Amathole Museum's most famous exhibition and therefore should take pride of place on the museum's website as well.

Our new-look, user-friendly website boasts with a new picture gallery, a research tool for schools and researchers alike and a facebook application has been added for your convenience. We will use the website as an effective communication tool where we will keep you updated on our latest programmes, exciting events, Friends of Museum outings and community engagements.

The Amathole Museum is the home of Huberta, the world's most famous hippopotamus. More than seventy five years after her death, young and old are still captivated by the story of her wanderings.

Huberta's probable birthplace was in northern KwaZulu Natal. In 1928 she first came to public notice and during the course of her 21/2 year journey, frequently made headline news.

The Amathole Museum has its origins in the King William's Town Naturalist Society founded in 1884. The Society's collections quickly outgrew temporary accommodation in the Council Chambers and Public Library.

From these small beginnings, the museum grew. It is the major attraction for visitors to King William's Town and also serves the local community.

The original museum building today forms the eastern wing of the Amathole Museum complex. It was officially opened to the public in October 1898 as The Museum of Natural History. A major extension to the building, linking it to the Public Library, was completed in 1953. The Wesleyan Church (photo), and Post Office buildings were incorporated in the early 1980's to house the growing museum.