To preserve this history, government has decided to list such buildings or ruins as monuments so as to protect and preserve them for future generations. One such place declared a national monument is MOTH Hall, a place that is said to be of a great significance to President Ian Khama who celebrated his 21st birthday there. MOTH hall was initially built as an entertainment and recreational place for veteran World War soldiers. The abbreviation "MOTH" stands for Memorable Order of Tin Hats; an international club whose origins date back to 1927 Durban, South Africa. The objective of this order was to celebrate the memories and spirit of comradeship and self-sacrifice of veteran soldiers. The area is also known to have been popular with troops travelling along the railway line en route to and from South Africa, South West Africa (Namibia) and Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) prior to independence.
"Architecturally the inner delineations and use of space is the preserved part of the building comprising of a full three tiered 1930s era bandstand, complete with a dance floor and a theatrical stage. After independence the MOTH hall took a more general socializing club, a theatre and a meeting place for former service men and members of the public alike. This monument has been refurbished in recent times but its inner space, rear side and most of the outer wall are original," Phillip Segola, Chief Curator at the National Museum explained.
