The Totius House Museum offers a profound journey into South Africa's rich cultural and literary heritage. This meticulously preserved residence provides visitors with an intimate glimpse into the life of one of Afrikaans literature's most influential figures, Professor Jakob Daniël du Toit, also known as Totius.
About the Museum
Constructed in 1905, the house originally served as the residence for Professor Jan Lion Cachet, the first rector of the Theological School of the Reformed Church. In 1911, Professor Jakob Daniël du Toit (Totius) succeeded Cachet and made this house his home until 1924. The museum is a prime example of Edwardian-period townhouses, reflecting the architectural design of the rector’s home from Burgersdorp, which inspired its ground plan.
The Totius House Museum preserves the very furniture and artifacts that belonged to the du Toit family, offering an authentic experience for visitors. After years of restoration, it was declared a National Monument and opened as a museum in 1977.
The Life of Totius and His Family
Totius lived in the house with his wife, Mrs. du Toit, their six children—Stephans, Dirk, Elizabeth, Jacob Wilhelmina, Francios—and his sister, Marie. Marie, a talented musician and writer, moved into the home, converting the guest room into her own bedroom. Among her many contributions, she authored a book about her life before her passing. Marie shared her room with Wilhelmina, Totius’s daughter.
The house bore witness to immense joy and heartbreak. Totius tragically lost two children in a short time. Francios died of meningitis in the family home, while Wilhelmina was struck by lightning in their Krugerskraal retreat, where Totius often wrote in solitude. Their photos, along with Totius's academic gowns, are displayed in the main bedroom. A wall hanging in the room bears words from “Passieblomme,” a volume of poems he wrote to honor his late children.
Exploring the Museum
Key Rooms and Artifacts
The Boys’ Room:This room reflects the simplicity of life during the time. The boys bathed in a zinc basin and used a chamber pot. The linen cupboard, an heirloom of the du Toit family, still stands in its original position.
The Main Bedroom:Photos of the late children, Francios and Wilhelmina, are prominently displayed here, along with other family memorabilia.
The Study:Totius’s oak writing table is central to this room, where he translated the Bible into Afrikaans, wrote, and edited poetry. Reassembling his library after his passing was a monumental task, as many of his books had been donated to individuals and institutions such as the Theological School.
The Dining Room and Harmonium:The oak dining suite, brought from Holland in 1903, stands proudly in the room. The harmonium (house organ) used by Totius to test melodies for his rhymed Psalms remains a centerpiece.
The Kitchen:Evidence of the family’s affluence can be seen in the fine-quality crockery and utensils preserved in this space. Despite its small size, the kitchen exudes charm and elegance.
Art and Gifts
The museum features two Pierneef paintings:
A Cape scene commissioned by Totius’s children for his 70th birthday.
A Bushveld scene gifted by Pierneef himself, inscribed “Aan Totius van Pierneef.”
The rosewood cabinet inherited from the Postma family serves as a sideboard, and portraits of Totius’s father and parents emphasize the family’s strong ties.
The Legacy of the Totius House Museum
After Totius’s death, the house was briefly occupied by family members before being acquired by the municipality. With great care, the house was restored, and original furniture and items were repurchased from the family to create the museum. Today, it serves as both a historical monument and a cultural treasure.
Visiting Information
Operating Hours:
Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 13:00 and 14:00 – 16:00
Contact Details:
Phone: 018 299 5047
Email: danelldw@jbmarks.gov.za
Address:
108 Molen Street, Potchefstroom
The Totius House Museum is more than a monument to one of Afrikaans literature’s giants—it’s a glimpse into the intimate world of a family that shaped South Africa’s cultural and linguistic landscape. Whether it’s the heartwarming family artifacts, the poignant memories of loss, or the literary legacy of Totius, a visit to this museum is both moving and enlightening. Join us next week as we continue our exploration of Potchefstroom’s rich history and cultural heritage.
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