ABOUT
About Us
The South Otago Historical Society was first discussed at the Waitepeka Hall on 15 November 1966 by a group of likeminded people who saw a need for the preservation of the local heritage and history.
In 1967, a scenic drive around the area was undertaken at a cost of 15 shillings and in 1968 the Society was incorporated and in conjunction with the Tokomairiro Society work began on the restoration of the Sod Cottage at Lovells Flat. The cottage was opened to the public 30 May 1970.
The museum was originally housed in a temporary premises on Clyde Street with over 1,000 visitors in a 3 month period. A decision was made to purchase the Bridgeview Motors building, and in November 1985 it became the museum's new home. A grand opening was held on 4 October 1986 with over 300 people in attendance.
The museum is still run and staffed by volunteers who are keen to preserve our history. In 2017 a full audit of the muesums' collection was undertaken over a six-month period where every item was catalogued and photographed. This exercise gave us a much broader understanding not only of our collection, but also of the area's history.
If you would like to talk to us about an item in our collection or are thinking about donating an item to the museum please contact us .