Stories from the Stores
Museums hold objects and objects hold stories. Explore below to discover a selection from museums across Wiltshire.
Seven museums from across the county have worked together to create ‘Stories from the Stores’. We have collaborated to find and share fascinating stories behind objects in our museum collections. These webpages allows you to explore these objects and stories in a range of ways. Pick an object below and see what you discover.
The work was made possible by a grant from Arts Council England (ACE), as part of a project called ‘Data to Discovery’.
It is a test project – the first time we’ve tried something like this – so we’d really value your feedback if you’d like to leave a comment below.
SBYAR:2018.183
Wooden money box made by William George Heath for his son Edward Heath, 1920s.
REME:2000.4323A
Model Volkswagen Beetle presented to Major Ivan Hirst REME
MAMAM:1978.417
Gold silk top hat worn by Harry Jones, ‘Mr Top Hat’
CHIYH:1993.36
Creative wartime endeavours on Wiltshire’s home front
SBYAR:2017.298
Plaster portrait bust of Olga Peters by Shenda Amery, circa 1983.
REME:2006.4800
Royal Review Vehicle used by Queen Elizabeth, The Queen Mother
MAMAM:1977.2.13
Pattern for a metal sluice cover made and used in Malmesbury
CHIYH:2022.159
A turbulent moment in Chippenham’s history, marked in stone
MRKLM:G2759 and G2767
A memory of how it used to be: Drawers, bloomers or knickers.
MRKLM:G3129
From flowers to mints: the history of a basket
SBYAR:2018.519
Two Chinese blue-and-white porcelain vases used as a diplomatic gift.
REME:2020.48.2
An Army canvas bag that was repurposed following the end of World War Two
MAMAM:2018.26.1
Indian silk brocade coat with gold thread buttons
CHIYH:2022.160
A silver watch and the daring deeds of a brave child from Chippenham
Some fascinating stories!
What an interesting project and exhibition, looking forward to seeing future developments.
Such interesting exhibits! I was particularly interested in the ones from Arundells, which gave insight on the life of Sir Edward Heath.
Must confirm my admiration of the work done on this project. I do hope it will spread throughout all the local museums in Wiltshire.
What a wonderful heritage this county has and the influence on our development.
Graham
Really enjoyed surfing the stories of the objects. Loved the connections with further objects, people, landscapes and communities. This really works and makes ‘every object tell a story’
Great to see these objects and the stories around them.
What an excellent way to share our store of treasures!