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Ncome Monument and Museum Complex
Dundee district, KwaZulu-Natal

Date:n.d.
Type:Monument
Status:Extant

 


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Coordinates:
28°06'21.39" S 30°32'45.10" E

Ncome Museum was officially opened in November 1999. Architecturally, the museum is unique. It takes its shape from the Zulu war horn formation. The Zulu King, Shaka kaSenzangakhona, initiated the formation.

The museum offers a re-interpretation of the 1838 battle and Zulu culture in general. The rich symbolism of the Zulu language is captured through items on display. In the Museum grounds are a Zulu war horn formation display, isisivivane (cairn) and a reed "garden".

(Blood River Heritage Site; Wikipedia)

The museum is across the river from the Blood River Monument and Museum Complex, with the Reconciliation Bridge connecting them.

Transcription of the English version of the CAIRN / ISIVANE notice: (see photographs)

CAIRN / ISIVIVANE

DEFINITION OF ISIVIVANE / CAIRN

A cairn is a heap of stones, or stones that are grouped together in order to fulfill a
particular objective. The meaning of the Cairn may vary from one context to another.
However, at Ncome Museum the Cairn is used to unite and sowthe seed of
reconciliation among South Africans.

Every tourist/visitor is allowed to throw a stone at the Cairn to signify that she/he
has been on the site and she/he supports a reconciliation campaign

THE CAIRN SIGNIFIES THE FOLLOWING:

  • It is a recognition of the site.
  • It is a sign of paying tribute to the fallen heroes and heroines in the struggle for freedom, with specific reference to The Battle of Ncome/Blood River on 16 December 1839.
  • It signifies unity, solidarity and reconciliation.

YOU ARE REQUESTED TO THROW A STONE AT
THE CAIRN IN ORDER TO FULFILL THE OBJECTIVE
OF UNITING THE NATION