We are a small, independent social history museum for Swaffham and the surrounding villages. Annual exhibitions plus displays from the Stone Age to the modern. Home of the Symonds collection of figures based on characters from literature and history. Local heroes include Howard Carter the archaeologist, Admiral of the Fleet Sir Knyvet Wilson VC, Jem Mace prize fighter, W E Johns author of the Biggles books and the Swaffham Pedlar.
In 2019 saw we opened the new 'Conflict and Consequences' Gallery, full of information about Swaffham's involvement in wars and conflicts. On an appointment basis, we offer personal and group research facilities in our Archive Room using maps, newspaper clippings and other documentation and artefacts.
In 2019 saw we opened the new 'Conflict and Consequences' Gallery, full of information about Swaffham's involvement in wars and conflicts. On an appointment basis, we offer personal and group research facilities in our Archive Room using maps, newspaper clippings and other documentation and artefacts.
Services
Access
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The ground floor has two large Galleries - the Ben Emmerson Room, and the Carter Connection. These have level access. On the first floor are the remaining two galleries. The David Butters Room is possible to access via an elevator situated in the Town Hall part of the building, but this is not available on Friday afternoons and Saturdays.
The Monique Slaven Room
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Monique Slaven worked with us as a volunteer for many years until her death in 2018. She had spent over 20 years with her metal detector searching the fields in neighbouring Sporle. Her finds reflect over 2000 years of life in the village. Spend three minutes in the Museum listening to a recording of Monique as she describes some of her finds.
The Carter Connection
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This gallery provides lots of information about Carter and the Ancient Egyptians plus engaging activities for children. Howard Carter's family was from Swaffham and he spent much of his childhood growing up in the town. Our gallery explores his link with Swaffham and the finding of the tomb of Tutankhamun in 1922.
The Carr Clock Restoration
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In 2015 the museum acquired a 19th Century longcase clock made by John Carr and Son of Swaffham. It stands 7'5 high and has an eight day striking movement. The clock was restored in 2015. Photographs and videos of its restoration may be viewed below (photography by Clifford J Freeman of Castlegate Clocks, Grantham).
The Shop
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The newly updated Museum Shop is well-stocked with gifts and mementos of the museum, Swaffham and beyond, and there is a generous selection of cards and postcards. We also sell locally made honey and preserves. Visitors and local residents will find a wide range of road and footpath maps for those wishing to explore the area more thoroughly.
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