September is a busy month in the museum world, with Heritage Open Days taking place from Friday 11th September to Sunday 20th September.
Museum of the Horse
On Sunday 13th September from 2.00pm to 5.00pm, the Museum of the Horse will open the Society of Equestrian Artists’ annual exhibition. The exhibition runs until Saturday 26th September and features work by artists from across the country. It is displayed in the gallery below the museum.
The museum’s sidesaddle exhibition continues to attract visitors from around the world. Recent guests included British Horse Society President and actor Martin Clunes and the organisation’s Chair, James Hick. Many visitors enjoying coffee in the courtyard were delighted to have their photographs taken with Martin.
The first in a series of one-day conferences will be held on Wednesday 2nd September. The conference programme forms part of the museum’s fundraising activities. Sally, who established the museum, is now 80 and continues to work hard to secure its future. Without sufficient funding to enable the museum to take ownership of the building, its future could be at risk. As the building stands at the heart of Tuxford, it would be a great shame to see it fall into disuse once again.
Supporters are encouraged to attend the museum’s events. Anyone interested in volunteering should contact Sally at curator@museumofthehorse.co.uk.
The Walks of Life Museum
The Walks of Life Museum will be open every day during Heritage Open Days, from Friday 11th September to Sunday 20th September, between 11.00am and 4.00pm. This year’s theme is ‘Everyday Histories’.
Events will take place throughout the week, including a history of shoe shining demonstration. Visitors are invited to bring their shoes along to be polished. Look out for the Cart of the Day as it tours the town before the museum opens each morning.
On Tuesday 15th September, tours of the historic farmhouse will take place hourly from 11.00am, led by Alan Walders of Nottinghamshire Building Preservation Trust and Jason Mordan, Senior Conservation Officer.
On Saturday 19th September at 2.00pm, ‘From Trieste to Tuxford’ will tell the story of local people who survived prisoner-of-war camps during the Second World War.
On Thursday 24th September, Sid will lead a willow weaving workshop. Participants can choose from two sessions: 10.00am to 1.00pm or 1.30pm to 3.30pm. Attendees will create a willow object, such as a dragonfly. The cost is £20.00 per person. Advance booking is essential as places are limited.
For further information or to book, contact Diane on 01777 872776 (please leave a message) or email dianehunt08@btinternet.com.