The Museum Trust (article by Graham Orchard)
The refurbishment work in the interior of the cottage is substantially complete, with minor works outstanding. We are now in the process of setting up the museum. Artefacts and exhibits are being collated and catalogued. In August we had a successful day with seven volunteers to help us assemble the flatpack display cabinets. Many thanks to all involved.
We are building a collection of local life stories, so if anyone who has lived in, or has known about the parish for many years would like to make an audio, or written account, we would welcome your contribution. The Anglo European school has kindly donated copies of their own collection of life stories for use in the museum.
The museum will show how life in the parish has changed, with emphasis on the importance of stagecoach and railway eras. As part of the stagecoach era, we are trying to obtain a cartwheel, so please do contact us if you know of one that is available.
As a community museum the Trust is very pleased to have art rails for a changing display of art and photographic works by local groups. A display board will be used for changing, locally-themed displays. One room will also contain a tableau the 1950s, the period when the cottage was last inhabited. We need a tea pot and a small coffee table from this time. If you have either, or any other local historical items that you are willing to donate or loan it to us, that would be much appreciated.
If you would like to volunteer to help in the museum, please do get in touch with our secretary on secretary@imt.gb.net
The museum will open its doors to the public from Saturday 25 October. We hope to open Friday and Saturday mornings to start, plus groups by arrangement
For more info: www.ingatestonemuseum.org.uk
We look forward to welcoming you at the museum!
