BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
MANZINI– Standing strong after a century of faith, service and history, the Old Stone Church Museum continues to tell the story of Eswatini’s journey as it celebrates 100 years of preserving the heritage of generations.
The historic landmark, which was completed in 1926, took centre stage during the Manzini Regional Day 2026 Heritage City Tour held on July 30, 2026, where visitors explored a building that has witnessed decades of spiritual growth, community development and cultural transformation.
The centenary celebration came as Manzini intensifies efforts to promote heritage tourism by showcasing sites that carry the stories of the people, events and traditions that have shaped the city and the nation.
Board member of the Old Stone Church Museum Elizabeth Hynd, granddaughter of founders Dr David Hynd and Reverend Kanema Hynd, described the milestone as a celebration of God’s grace, resilience and the dedication of generations who worked to preserve the historic structure.
Hynd said the church’s survival for a century reflects the strength of the foundation laid by its founders and the commitment of those who continued to protect its legacy.
“100 years is a very special milestone, and we thank God that the building is still standing. These are living stones because even though many people have passed on, their work and their legacy continue through us,” she said.
She explained that the church underwent major renovations in 2016 after the structure began showing signs of deterioration, with different individuals and stakeholders contributing towards restoring the historic building.
“Others have also put their hands in and helped us rebuild. We are grateful because preserving this place requires everyone’s support,” she said.
The Old Stone Church Museum has become one of Manzini’s most treasured heritage sites, preserving important chapters of Eswatini’s religious and social history.
The museum documents the arrival and growth of Christianity in Eswatini from the 1840s, while tracing the development of the Nazarene Church and the transformation of Bremersdorp into modern-day Manzini.
During the Heritage City Tour, participants explored historical photographs, artefacts and displays that highlight the journeys of individuals who contributed to the growth of the church and the surrounding community.
Hynd said the museum represents more than a century-old building, describing it as a place where memories, stories and contributions of past generations are kept alive.
She expressed gratitude to community leaders, supporters and individuals who have played a role in ensuring that the museum remains a valuable heritage resource.
Museum manager Lukhanya said preserving history is at the heart of the institution’s work, with efforts focused on protecting historical records, traditional artefacts and personal stories connected to the church.
She said the museum provides visitors with an opportunity to connect with the past and appreciate the contributions of people whose efforts shaped the community.
“We are grateful that the stories of different individuals are preserved here so that everyone has a profile and their contribution is remembered. We continue to safeguard our heritage and traditional artefacts moving forward,” she said.
As part of the Manzini Regional Day 2026 celebrations, the Heritage City Tour has highlighted the importance of using historical landmarks as tools for education, cultural preservation and tourism development.
The Old Stone Church Museum’s 100-year journey stands as a powerful reminder that heritage is not only found in buildings, but also in the memories, sacrifices and achievements of the people who came before.
Today, the century-old landmark continues to inspire future generations while preserving the story of Eswatini’s rich cultural journey.
#ManziniRegionalDay2026#OldStoneChurchMuseum#NazareneChurch#HeritageDay#EswatiniCulture#Tourism #Siyinkhabave #EswatiniPositiveNews
