By Dennis Nyambane | November, 26 2023
On November 26th, 2023, I embarked on a captivating journey to Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum, located just 4 kilometers from Nakuru city in Nakuru County, Kenya.
The anticipation of witnessing firsthand the remnants of Kenya’s ancient history made the day an exciting one.
Before delving into the archaeological wonders that awaited, I paid a modest fee of Ksh 150 via Ecitizen, a seamless process that paved the way for an enlightening experience.
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The Hyrax Hill site, situated half a kilometer from Lake Nakuru, is not just a museum but a treasure trove of prehistory, history, and natural history.
The roots of Hyrax Hill’s significance stretch back to 1937 when Mrs. Selfe’s chance discovery led to the commencement of archaeological excavations.
Dr. Mary Leakey played a pivotal role, unearthing relics, rough stone enclosures, and a remarkable Neolithic mass grave during the first phase of excavations in 1937.
Subsequent phases, including those led by Ron Clarke in 1965 and Dr. Onyango Abunje in 1973–74, unveiled layers of history from the late Stone Age to the Iron Age.
The culmination of these efforts was the declaration of Hyrax Hill as a national monument on November 26, 1945.
Dr. John Sutton’s re-investigation in 1986 further enriched the understanding of the site, revealing three Sirikwa houses on Site II.
The Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum, managed by the National Museums of Kenya under the direction of Dr. Mzalendo, underwent renovations sponsored by the Kenya Museum Society and the British Institute in Eastern Africa.
The dedication to preserving and showcasing Kenya’s archaeological heritage is evident in the meticulous curation of the museum.
The museum building itself, a former farmhouse from the early 20th century, is a piece of history. Mrs. Selfe relinquished the building in 1965, transforming it into a rectangular structure with a veranda and a central gallery.
Divided into three chambers, the museum displays a rich array of artifacts. The central gallery showcases the archaeology of the site, including a model depicting the entire area.
The East and West chambers highlight natural history objects and ethnographic materials, respectively.
Within the museum’s walls, visitors encounter a diverse collection of over 400 objects and artworks. Carved masks, wooden statues, and creations by Musas from 1970 to 2000 offer glimpses into the artistic expressions of the past.
Additionally, traditional music instruments, metalworks, pottery items, bamboo objects, and hunting gadgets further enrich the museum’s exhibits.
Venturing outside, the Hyrax Hill Archaeology Site unfolds. This small rocky lava ridge, approximately 500 meters long and 50 meters high, resonates with history dating back 200 to 500 years. The site is named after the hyraxes that once roamed its rocky openings.
Hyrax Hill’s archaeological sites span various epochs, from Neolithic occupations with burials on Site I to recent Iron Age activities on Site I and earlier Iron Age pursuits on Site II.
The strategic location, nestled in Kenya’s Rift Valley and close to the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, adds to its allure. The hill stands about 100 meters above Lake Nakuru, offering a breathtaking vantage point.
Visitors can explore excavated sites left open for public exhibition, providing a captivating panorama of ancient lifestyles and achievements.
The journey through Hyrax Hill Prehistoric Site and Museum is a testament to Kenya’s rich archaeological tapestry and the dedicated efforts to preserve and share this heritage with the world.
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