News & Events for Wallingford Museum
Wallingford Museum is delighted to learn that The Wallingford Historical and Archaeological Society has received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service
Full details are here
and more details here
Full details are here
and more details here
Museum - Update - Summer 2020
After much thought and assessment of current risks, Wallingford Museum has reluctantly decided that it is not possible to re-open to the public at present. Sadly, we are unable to guarantee compliance with the present regulations for social distancing because of our many confined spaces and the intimate charm of our displays, which are the essence of the museum’s attraction. We also have many ‘hands-on’ experiences which cannot be safely used at present.
We will continue to assess the situation in hope that we may be able to open later in the year, and can assure everyone that we will be back in business just as soon as it is safe to re-open.
In the meantime we hope to be able to offer some guided town and castle walks with pre-booked limited numbers. Please regularly visit our website for all updated information. We also hope to be offering some new virtual glimpses of things ‘behind the scenes’ at the Museum, to compensate for being unable to open at present.
You can be assured that our volunteers are already busy developing plans and ideas for next year. We hope to have a new model of the castle, updated displays, new exhibitions, and will continue with a programme of interactive events which were so well received last year. Much to look forward to!
Judy Dewey (Curator - Wallingford Museum)
After much thought and assessment of current risks, Wallingford Museum has reluctantly decided that it is not possible to re-open to the public at present. Sadly, we are unable to guarantee compliance with the present regulations for social distancing because of our many confined spaces and the intimate charm of our displays, which are the essence of the museum’s attraction. We also have many ‘hands-on’ experiences which cannot be safely used at present.
We will continue to assess the situation in hope that we may be able to open later in the year, and can assure everyone that we will be back in business just as soon as it is safe to re-open.
In the meantime we hope to be able to offer some guided town and castle walks with pre-booked limited numbers. Please regularly visit our website for all updated information. We also hope to be offering some new virtual glimpses of things ‘behind the scenes’ at the Museum, to compensate for being unable to open at present.
You can be assured that our volunteers are already busy developing plans and ideas for next year. We hope to have a new model of the castle, updated displays, new exhibitions, and will continue with a programme of interactive events which were so well received last year. Much to look forward to!
Judy Dewey (Curator - Wallingford Museum)
Victory in Europe 1945
VE Day: 8 May
When Germany surrendered to the Allies on 8 May 1945 the war in Europe officially ended. All over Britain people took to the streets to hold unofficial celebrations.
At that time few people had film in their cameras and we have no pictures of these early moments of peace in Wallingford but 8 & 9 May were holidays for all the town. The official celebrations came later, in July.
First, The British Legion were permitted to hold a fete in the Castle Grounds (then private ownership) which was attended by 2,500 people. There was a display of folk and sword dancing, and the Castle Museum - which held the private collection of Sir John Hedges - was open for the public. There was also an Ankle Competition, and a Fete 'Pin-up' competition!
The Official VE Day celebration was on 30 July, when there was a large Fancy Dress parade on the Bullcroft, then a programme of sports for the children, plus bowling for a pig. In the evening there was dancing, with music and lights provided by the RAF.
There is a display in Wallingford Museum about VE Day in the town, including photos of the Coachmakers Arms on 30 July 1945. We hope you can come and pay a visit when the Lockdown permits?
Flint House (now the home of Wallingford Museum) might have looked like this on VE day???
VE Day: 8 May
When Germany surrendered to the Allies on 8 May 1945 the war in Europe officially ended. All over Britain people took to the streets to hold unofficial celebrations.
At that time few people had film in their cameras and we have no pictures of these early moments of peace in Wallingford but 8 & 9 May were holidays for all the town. The official celebrations came later, in July.
First, The British Legion were permitted to hold a fete in the Castle Grounds (then private ownership) which was attended by 2,500 people. There was a display of folk and sword dancing, and the Castle Museum - which held the private collection of Sir John Hedges - was open for the public. There was also an Ankle Competition, and a Fete 'Pin-up' competition!
The Official VE Day celebration was on 30 July, when there was a large Fancy Dress parade on the Bullcroft, then a programme of sports for the children, plus bowling for a pig. In the evening there was dancing, with music and lights provided by the RAF.
There is a display in Wallingford Museum about VE Day in the town, including photos of the Coachmakers Arms on 30 July 1945. We hope you can come and pay a visit when the Lockdown permits?
Flint House (now the home of Wallingford Museum) might have looked like this on VE day???
'Nation's Toast to the Heroes of WW2'
We would have liked to invite you to join us in the 1945 Bar at Wallingford Museum at 3pm on 8th May to take part in the 'Nation's Toast to the Heroes of WW2' !
This unique opportunity was to pay tribute to the many millions at home and abroad that gave so much to ensure we all enjoy and share the freedom we have today.
However, the Bar has to remain closed ....... and so please raise a glass at home, instead.
Our barmaid making preparations for the 1945 Bar earlier this year:-
Wallingford Museum in 2020
The Museum opened for its 2020 season with a brand new local exhibition ‘Plague, Pus and Pills - the history of Wallingford’s hospitals’, which traces the story of caring for the sick from medieval times to the present day’.
Also, look out for the 'Willis Family paintings' exhibition.
In addition, there will be special events during the year - including our Easter workshops 'Can You FACE It ?' (which will appeal to ages 7 to 99!). With an introduction to forensic science and plenty of imagination you too can make your own facial reconstruction, complete with eyes, eyebrows, nose, lips, hair and ears. More details below .....
Lots of fascinating things to see and enjoy!
Further details on exhibitions, click here.
With such a busy year ahead, we are always keen to hear from anyone interested in volunteering, whether to be a custodian, assist with the archive, delve into research, assist at events, or be a walk guide etc.
If you would like to know more please contact Jenny Carpenter 01491 826734, jenacarpenter@hotmail.co.uk
Wallingford Museum in 2020
The Museum opened for its 2020 season with a brand new local exhibition ‘Plague, Pus and Pills - the history of Wallingford’s hospitals’, which traces the story of caring for the sick from medieval times to the present day’.
Also, look out for the 'Willis Family paintings' exhibition.
In addition, there will be special events during the year - including our Easter workshops 'Can You FACE It ?' (which will appeal to ages 7 to 99!). With an introduction to forensic science and plenty of imagination you too can make your own facial reconstruction, complete with eyes, eyebrows, nose, lips, hair and ears. More details below .....
Lots of fascinating things to see and enjoy!
Further details on exhibitions, click here.
With such a busy year ahead, we are always keen to hear from anyone interested in volunteering, whether to be a custodian, assist with the archive, delve into research, assist at events, or be a walk guide etc.
If you would like to know more please contact Jenny Carpenter 01491 826734, jenacarpenter@hotmail.co.uk
Can you Face it?
~ postponed until later date ~
With a brief introduction to forensic science and plenty of imagination you too can make your own facial reconstruction, complete with eyes, eyebrows, nose, lips, hair and ears.
We have the "skulls", play dough, and know how. We just need your family to come and share the fun. Once your reconstruction is complete, take your own snapshot as a souvenir.
Children are Free but will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult please.
Any adults accompanying children will requested to pay an admission charge to the museum of £5, for an annual season ticket. The workshop is free to children and season ticket holders. There are only 16 places per workshop, adults need to book as well as children.
Two workshops each day on 7, 9, 14, 16 April.
Advance booking and full details at:-
Book now - to avoid disappointment !
~ postponed until later date ~
With a brief introduction to forensic science and plenty of imagination you too can make your own facial reconstruction, complete with eyes, eyebrows, nose, lips, hair and ears.
We have the "skulls", play dough, and know how. We just need your family to come and share the fun. Once your reconstruction is complete, take your own snapshot as a souvenir.
Children are Free but will need to be accompanied by a responsible adult please.
Any adults accompanying children will requested to pay an admission charge to the museum of £5, for an annual season ticket. The workshop is free to children and season ticket holders. There are only 16 places per workshop, adults need to book as well as children.
Two workshops each day on 7, 9, 14, 16 April.
Advance booking and full details at:-
Book now - to avoid disappointment !
Medicine through Time - Drop in
~ postponed until later date ~
Explore the history of medicine in thirteen objects.
A supervised drop in session at Wallingford Museum to explore and handle interesting objects; with thanks to Reading Museum Schools Loans Service.
Further details, click here
Tuesday 26 May 11:00 - 15:00
Wed 27 May 11:00 - 15:00
Thurs 28 May 11:00 - 15:00
~ postponed until later date ~
Explore the history of medicine in thirteen objects.
A supervised drop in session at Wallingford Museum to explore and handle interesting objects; with thanks to Reading Museum Schools Loans Service.
Further details, click here
Tuesday 26 May 11:00 - 15:00
Wed 27 May 11:00 - 15:00
Thurs 28 May 11:00 - 15:00
Wallingford Museum Bookshop
Book-lovers and present-seekers should make a point of visiting Wallingford Museum’s bookstall.
We have an excellent selection of good second-hand books (both fiction and non-fiction) at sensible prices.
We’ll be open during the normal Museum opening hours.
We look forward to seeing you - it's free to browse!
Book-lovers and present-seekers should make a point of visiting Wallingford Museum’s bookstall.
We have an excellent selection of good second-hand books (both fiction and non-fiction) at sensible prices.
We’ll be open during the normal Museum opening hours.
We look forward to seeing you - it's free to browse!
Regular Town Walks
~ our Town and Castle Walks are postponed until a later date ~
Our popular Guided Historic Town Walks take place every Saturday mornings at 11am from the Town Hall, starting again on Saturday 11 April. Walks last 1 - 2 hours and cost £5 per head, money which will be donated to support Wallingford Museum. The Walks are led by knowledgeable volunteers from Wallingford Museum.
These are general walks covering the rich history of our town, but also touching on the links with Agatha Christie and 'Midsomer Murders'. They will appeal to residents and visitors alike.
Alternatively, if you’d like to organise a Town Walk like this for your group / society / school / business at a different time (eg lunch time, early evening etc), then please contact Philip Burton on 01491-836200 or pburton6@talktalk.net
Our Walks can be led by a German-speaking guide - please contact Philip in advance to arrange.
Alternatively, we also offer more specialist history walks by arrangement - an in-depth view of the Town or Castle, or of Agatha Christie's 42 years in the town - tailored to your group's interests. (These walks can also be combined with a visit to Wallingford Museum). To pursue this option, please contact Judy Dewey on 01491- 651127 or judy@piepowder.co.uk
~ our Town and Castle Walks are postponed until a later date ~
Our popular Guided Historic Town Walks take place every Saturday mornings at 11am from the Town Hall, starting again on Saturday 11 April. Walks last 1 - 2 hours and cost £5 per head, money which will be donated to support Wallingford Museum. The Walks are led by knowledgeable volunteers from Wallingford Museum.
These are general walks covering the rich history of our town, but also touching on the links with Agatha Christie and 'Midsomer Murders'. They will appeal to residents and visitors alike.
Alternatively, if you’d like to organise a Town Walk like this for your group / society / school / business at a different time (eg lunch time, early evening etc), then please contact Philip Burton on 01491-836200 or pburton6@talktalk.net
Our Walks can be led by a German-speaking guide - please contact Philip in advance to arrange.
Alternatively, we also offer more specialist history walks by arrangement - an in-depth view of the Town or Castle, or of Agatha Christie's 42 years in the town - tailored to your group's interests. (These walks can also be combined with a visit to Wallingford Museum). To pursue this option, please contact Judy Dewey on 01491- 651127 or judy@piepowder.co.uk
New Visitor and Archive Facilities; and Archaeological Store
Wallingford Museum is extremely pleased and grateful to announce that it was awarded a grant by the LEADER fund to extend and improve its facilities.
These new facilities (collections and archaeological store, space for group visits, disabled toilet, new kitchen) have now been completed.
For further information, please click here.
