Some ladies were transported through the streets of Cape Town in a sedan chair like this one, carried by slaves. There were still dirt roads in those days and ladies particularly did not wish to dirty their fancy clothing.
The chair belonged to Mrs Horak, a daughter of Martin Melck, one of the richest men at the Cape. Mrs Horak was also the grandmother of Marie Koopmans-De Wet (1834-1906).
The house in Strand Street that belonged to Marie Koopmans-De Wet has been furnished in the style of the later 18th century and is the oldest house museum in Cape Town.
Iziko Museums of Cape Town: Social History Collections (SACHM 250)
——————————————————————————
Copyright © 2002 Iziko Museums of Cape Town