The National Mining Museum in the mining compound of Globe and Phoenix in Kwekwe City stand out forgotten in the dusty, dirt and in the midst of illegal mining activities going on in the area. It is a stark reminder of the booming old mining days. The Paper House, which sticks out like a sore thumb is an amazing and unique relic from1894.It is a wood and reinforced cardboard structure, made from paper mache and wire mesh in striking green and white paints. This was home to the first Miine Manager of Globe and Phoenix Mine Mr H. A Piper. The structure is still in fairly good condition. The Paper House was manufactured in Britain and shipped to Kwekwe. Cecil John Rhodes allegedly slept in the House.
Most of the mining equipment now on display relates to the post 1900 era and includes hand operated Stamp mills as well as a belt driven models powered by steam and later by electricity, plus all the associated equipment required in mines such as pumps, compressors, crushers and rock drills. The exhibits , all associated with mining, provide an insight into the complexities of mining and the degree of technical expertise required to win precious metals from ground depths.
The original Kwekwe was a small police fort based on Kwekwe River but with gold deposits and mining activities settlers drifted to Sebakwe. The first butchery and general store was opened in 1902,but the mine opened its own general dealer store in 1903. A Wine Club was also opened in 1902 with a bar and billiards room. On 20 August 1902 Sebakwe was renamed Kwekwe.
