Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is a cherished cultural institution located in the heart of Barnstaple, North Devon. Established in the late 19th century, the museum provides a fascinating insight into the region’s rich history, heritage, and natural environment. Over the years, it has grown into an essential part of Barnstaple’s cultural landscape, offering visitors a chance to explore a diverse collection of artifacts, artworks, and exhibits that tell the story of North Devon’s people, industries, and landscape.

Origins and Early History

The museum was founded in 1888, reflecting the Victorian era’s growing interest in natural history, archaeology, and local heritage. It was originally housed in a building on the High Street, providing a space for the display of collections related to the history, culture, and environment of North Devon. The museum’s early collections focused heavily on natural history, with fossils, minerals, and taxidermy specimens forming a significant part of the exhibits.

As the years passed, the museum expanded its collections to include archaeology, social history, and fine art, reflecting Barnstaple’s long and varied history. The museum’s early success and the dedication of local historians and benefactors helped ensure its survival and growth well into the 20th century.

Move to The Square and Expansion

In 1989, the museum moved to its current location on The Square, a more spacious and prominent building that allowed for larger and more diverse exhibits. The building, formerly the Bridge Chambers, was an ideal home for the growing collection and provided the opportunity to create more engaging displays and interactive experiences for visitors.

The new location also allowed the museum to focus more on the local heritage of North Devon, including Barnstaple’s important role as a historic market town, its maritime history, and its contributions to the region’s pottery and lace-making industries. The museum became a key attraction for both locals and tourists, offering a window into the past of this vibrant part of Devon.

Recent Developments

In 2019, the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon underwent a significant £2 million redevelopment, which included the construction of a modern extension to the original building. This expansion provided additional gallery space, improved visitor facilities, and enabled the museum to display a greater range of exhibits, including temporary exhibitions and traveling shows.

The new extension, known as The Long Bridge Wing, opened up new possibilities for the museum, allowing it to host more interactive displays, digital resources, and educational activities. It also features a café and a gift shop, making it a welcoming space for families, school groups, and casual visitors. The museum is now fully accessible, ensuring that it can cater to all visitors.

Collections and Exhibits

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon boasts a wide variety of exhibits that cover the history and culture of the region. Some key areas of interest include:

Social History: Exhibits on the daily lives of people in Barnstaple and North Devon throughout history, including displays of local crafts, tools, and everyday items used in the region over the centuries.

Pottery: Barnstaple and North Devon are renowned for their pottery, particularly the distinctive Barnstaple pottery. The museum has an extensive collection of pottery, showcasing both historic and contemporary pieces from the region’s long-standing ceramic tradition.

Natural History: The museum’s natural history collection features fossils, taxidermy, and geological specimens from North Devon. Visitors can explore the local wildlife, past and present, with exhibits on the region’s unique flora and fauna.

Maritime and Industrial Heritage: The museum has a strong focus on Barnstaple’s maritime history, reflecting its past as a bustling port. Exhibits include models of ships, maritime tools, and items related to trade and fishing, which were vital to the local economy.

Art and Photography: The museum showcases the artistic heritage of North Devon, with works by local artists, including Charles Kingsley, and a collection of historical photographs that capture life in the region over the years.

Temporary Exhibitions: The museum hosts a rotating series of temporary exhibitions, often featuring contemporary art, local history, or thematic displays tied to North Devon’s heritage.

Role in the Community

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon plays an important role in the local community, offering a range of educational programs, workshops, and events for all ages. The museum works closely with local schools, providing resources and activities that help students explore North Devon’s history in an engaging and interactive way.

The museum is also involved in various local cultural events and celebrations, often collaborating with other institutions to promote the heritage and arts of North Devon. Its café and gift shop offer locally sourced products and crafts, supporting the region’s artisans and small businesses.

A historic conclusion

The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon is a vital part of the town’s cultural fabric, offering both locals and visitors a rich, immersive experience into the history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. From its Victorian origins to its modern redevelopment, the museum continues to evolve, providing a space where North Devon’s past is preserved and celebrated. Whether you’re interested in local history, natural science, or the arts, the museum offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Barnstaple.

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