Crewkerne has a long and interesting history - its status as a Saxon royal Mint, its importance as a stopping place for travellers, and its prosperity based on the textile industry.

The ancient Roman hill fort of Ham Hill is a few miles distant, and the town's more important buildings were constructed of stone quarried from the hill. There were some well-known personalities associated with the town. Admiral Hardy was educated a few hundred yards from the museum, and sail cloth for his fleet, including the Victory, were manufactured in the town. Founded in 1988, the Museum illustrates these things, but equally shows how ordinary local people lived and worked at various periods. Some of the latest graphic techniques are used to enliven the displays.

Many aspects of local history are explored - industries, commerce, religion, education and domestic life. Of particular interest is the display regarding the history of Bryants' Bakery, (new in 2008) the model of Admiral Hardy and the traditional kitchen. We hope children will enjoy the St. Bartholomew's Church puzzle, puzzles and weaving, the prisoner in his cell and the quiz. Changing displays of photographs and other items from our collection or on loan are on view in the exhibition room.

An important activity in the museum is the ongoing conservation and storage of artefacts. Volunteers have carried out a complete audit of the museum collection. items are numbered, their condition and any marks noted, and probably most importantly their location recorded. With over 2000 items in the collection, it was fast becoming a headache to recall where everything was, and the items not currently needed for display are carefully re-packed.

Microfilmed details of local parish registers and censuses, and a wide range of paper-based information is held here. There are also some local oral history recordings. Those retracing their family history or just seeking details of a relative in this area, will find much to help them, as will those researching aspects of the history of Crewkerne and the neighbouring villages. Information can be copied for a modest charge.

If you've had fun on your family day out to Crewkerne and District Museum, tell us about it your visit, so other people will know it's a great place to go as well.

http://www.crewkernemuseum.co.uk/