St Ives Cornwall - Museum
One of the hidden gems of St Ives - the museum is tucked away on Wheal Dream between The Harbour and Porthgwidden Beach.
Its packed with what I can only describe as "stuff" relating to the town, its history and residents. Its run by enthusiastic local volunteeers rather than "professionals" so its a proper old- fashioned museum not an "experience" or "educational enrichment opportunity".
There are hundreds of exhibits which include paintings, stuffed animals, archaeology, old photographs, clothing, textiles, bibles, houshold items, tools, model ships and loads more.
Themes include fishing, mining, The Hain Steamship Company, John Knill, railways, art, lighthouses, boat building, World War II and RNLI.
New exhibits for 2009 include a Pilchard Curing Cellar and a Video Room where you can watch films about St Ives and its history.
They have prints of many of the photographs for sale, but if you want a print thats not in stock they can arrange this and send it on to you.
Plans for next year include installation of a Bernard Leach section with pottery by the artist and other memorabilia.
School parties and other groups are welcome but asked to book in advance. The curator and staff can arrange a tailored visit for you. Childrens workbooks are available covering various themes.
Enquiries from students, researchers and others are welcome. Please write to Brian Stevens Hon. Curator, The St Ives Museum, Wheal Dream, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 1PR. Enclose an SAE to ensure a reply.
Phone: 01736 796005.
They are keen to recruit new volunteers so if you'd like to help out get in touch.
The museum is open from Easter to the end of October.
Opening hours are:
10.00 - 5.00 Monday to Friday.
10.00 - 4.00 Saturday.
Closed on Sundays.
To find it simply walk along The Wharf or Back Road and keep going until you reach it.
Map:
