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A memorial with a purpose
The Monument was built to commemorate the contributions
made by English-speaking Settlers to South Africa. It is unlike
any other monument because, since its opening on 13 July 1974,
this superbly equipped building has been a centre of creative
thought and activity.
The Monument has become a meeting place for all South Africans.
It was built to commemorate a worthy heritage and to encourage
us to look forward with hope.
Amid reminders of the past, the building provides facilities
for use by all South Africans, in particular activities which
encourage the ideals of freedom of speech, social interaction
and the use of English as a contact language.
This concept of a living Monument led to the establishment
of highly successful educational and cultural projects. The
Monument is now used by well over 200 000 people a year from
all South African groups.
The English language and the democratic tradition
The 1820 Settlers Monument is not used to glorify one section
of the community, but to draw attention, in particular, to
two portions of their heritage which could be shared by all
South Africans - the English language and the democratic tradition,
both of value to the country, now and in the future.
South Africa's Living Monument as a Conference Centre
The Monument has been specifically designed for use as a
conference centre in accordance with the Foundation's policy
to encourage free debate and open discussion. Find
out more...
Free tours of the building are provided on request.
Contact us for more
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The Fountain Court statue is designed to look like scaffolding.