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I wanted to share this announcement from the Anglo Boer War Museum in Bloemfontein.



This newly-constructed replica Blockhouse is based on the last two remaining octagonal blockhouses still in existence. One is located at Norvalspont and has been converted into a guesthouse and the other can be found at Tierpoort just outside Bloemfontein.

This replica blockhouse was constructed with the help of architectural plans sourced from the National Archives in England as well as meticulous work done using the original at Tierpoort as a blueprint. It was constructed in what was known as the Orange River Octagonal style and was made from Free State sandstone.

The Blockhouse Museum commemorates a pivotal chapter in the War, showcasing the strategic role that blockhouses played and their enduring impact on military history. This replica blockhouse offers visitors an immersive experience, combining authentic architecture with curated exhibits that bring the past to life.

The construction of the Blockhouse Museum commenced in June 2025 and was completed in November 2025. The exhibition tells the story of how blockhouses were used during the war as well as the experiences of the guards that served in them. A scale model of a blockhouse scene was created by architect draftsman Hennie van Zyl. It took him many months to create the piece, showing blockhouse life through miniatures. Lifesize cut-outs also dot the interior of the blockhouse to give visitors and authentic feel of how it would have been like to serve in such a blockhouse.

The Museum has created a short video about the opening, available on their YouTube channel :