People interested in Staffordshire’s history are invited to a behind-the-scenes tour of the county’s Museum Collection Stores.
Visitors can view items that represent the history of the home and domestic life, including furniture, laundry equipment, kitchen utensils, toys, lighting and garden tools.
The collections also include historic clothing and textiles, agricultural machinery, historic signage and wheeled vehicles.
Also included is the fascinating Shrewsbury Carriage Collection dating from the 19th century. These fabulous vehicles belonged to the Chetwynd family of Ingestre Hall.
Catherine Mann, Assistant Director for Culture, Rural and Safer Communities at Staffordshire County Council, said:
“We’re incredibly lucky to have such an extensive collection that tells Staffordshire’s fascinating story through many centuries.
“These behind-the-scenes tours offer a unique opportunity to see some amazing items. Each has their own story of how they helped shape life in the county.
“Some of the items will be displayed in the new Staffordshire History Centre, but with so many to choose from, it’s a tough job deciding. We’re delighted to be able to share this unique experience with visitors.”
One item of note in the stores is a unique cast-iron statue of biblical figure Samson, which had been part of an ornate drinking fountain originally on Stafford’s Gaol Square. The statue was eventually demolished when a motor van collided with it in 1928, but Samson survives to tell the tale as part of the museum collection.
There are also over 100 paintings and artworks relating to Staffordshire’s past that highlight the county through time. The historic dress and textiles collections include pieces dating from the 1700s, together with accessories, children’s clothes, uniforms and workwear.
The next tour is taking place on Friday 1 May. Places are free, but booking is essential. Please visit the Staffordshire History Centre website for details.
The Staffordshire History Centre, located on Eastgate Street in Stafford, is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am – 4pm, and is free to visit. The centre includes a research room, educational spaces, historical collections and a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. The centre was partly funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund with a grant of £4.8 million.
