• history of the south african museum
• key dates in the history of the south african museum
• directors of the south african museum
• history of the terrestrial invertebrate collection
• james drury - taxidermist

see also:

• Out of Africa there is always something new  by J.A. van den Heever
• Growth of a Collection (Ethnology Collection)  by E. M.Shaw

Michael Albert Cluver:
Director of the South African Museum 1985 - 2001

Michael Albert Cluver was born in 1942 in Caledon, and grew up in Stellenbosch, where he attended school and the University of Stellenbosch. Graduated with B.Sc. Hons, M.Sc. and Ph.D., majoring in Zoology and Vertebrate Palaeontology.

He joined the staff of the South African Museum in 1966, as Professional Officer in the Department of Palaeontology. Research concentrated on Permian and Triassic vertebrates from the Karoo, particularly herbivorous mammal-like reptiles. In addition to undertaking extensive fieldwork in southern Africa, his research involved periods of study at the Natural History Museum, London, the American Museum of Natural History, New York and the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, all of which hold important collections of fossils from the Karoo.

He was appointed Assistant Director of the Museum in 1977, and Director in 1985, succeeding the late Dr TH Barry. In 1987 he was responsible for the relocation of the collections to a new research wing. and for the launching of a new exhibition complex linked to the historical Museum building that had opened almost a century before in 1897. The newly extended Museum included a Planetarium, a lecture theatre and much improved visitor facilities. Under his direction the Museum became more community-focused with increased emphasis being placed on education and outreach. Hands-on discovery and engagement became keynotes of the Museum experience, while research excellence continued to be encouraged and supported. The Whale Gallery, popularly known as the ’ Whale Well’ soon became an acclaimed venue for performances and special events.

During the 1990s South Africa underwent remarkable social and political transformation with the inauguration of President Mandela in April 1994 signalling the beginning of a new democratic era. All state-funded institutions became part of a process of social reconstruction, guided by the principles of equity and access. The opening up of the country after a period of academic and cultural boycott brought new energy to the Museum in the form of partnerships and increased links with overseas colleagues and institutions. The process of transformation continues.

In 1997 the Museum became part of the information highway with its own website and online access to knowledge for both staff and visitors.

In April 1999, the South African Museum - together with other cultural institutions in Cape Town, was incorporated within the new Southern Flagship Museum under a new Council and Chief Executive Officer. The responsibilities attaching to the present post of Director will undergo review as Flagship structures are put into place. As part of a national museum service the South African Museum will continue to pursue its mission of increasing understanding of our natural and cultural heritage.