Cromwell Museum

Steeped in rich history and brimming with fascinating artifacts, the Cromwell Museum in Huntingdon, England, offers an unparalleled glimpse into the life and legacy of one of the most contentious and influential figures in British history, Oliver Cromwell. Nestled in the heart of the town where Cromwell was born and spent much of his early life, the museum is a treasure trove for history enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The Historic Building

Housed in the former grammar school where Cromwell himself was educated, the Cromwell Museum occupies a building with its own storied past. The structure retains fragments of the medieval infirmary hall of the Hospital of St John the Baptist, dating back to the late 12th century. Originally an almshouse for the poor, it later became the Huntingdon Grammar School, which remained in the building until 1896. The building underwent significant modifications over the centuries, including a major restoration in 1878 funded by dramatist Dion Boucicault in memory of his son.

The exterior of the building is adorned with charming architectural features such as a bellcote and five decorative arches on its west front. A Romanesque doorway, discovered during the 1878 restoration, adds to the building’s historical charm. Although it was once a scheduled Ancient Monument, the building is now a Grade II* listed structure, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

The Museum's Foundation and Evolution

The idea for the Cromwell Museum was born from a temporary exhibition held in 1958 to commemorate the anniversary of Cromwell's death. The success of this exhibition spurred the Huntingdonshire County Council to establish a permanent collection dedicated to the town's most famous resident. The museum officially opened its doors in 1962 after extensive internal redecoration.

Initially managed by the Huntingdonshire County Council, the museum's administration later transitioned to the Cambridgeshire County Council library service. In 2016, management was transferred to a charitable trust, ensuring the museum's continued operation and preservation of its valuable collections.

The Collections: A Journey Through Cromwell's Life

The Cromwell Museum boasts the most comprehensive collection of Cromwelliana in the United Kingdom, with approximately 610 individual items as of 2009. The museum's collection includes artifacts owned by Cromwell himself, as well as items on loan from the Bush family (descendants of Henry Cromwell), the Royal Armouries, and the Museum of London.

Among the museum's most notable pieces are portraits of Cromwell and his family, including works by renowned artists such as Robert Walker and Sir Peter Lely. Visitors can also view Cromwell's personal belongings, such as the hat he is believed to have worn during the dissolution of the Long Parliament in 1653 and his personal powder flask. An apothecary's cabinet owned by Cromwell and a Florentine cabinet gifted to him by the Duke of Tuscany are also on display.

The museum's collection extends beyond personal artifacts to include military equipment from the 17th century, coins, and portrait medals. A significant portion of the museum's holdings consists of printed pamphlets and key texts from Cromwell's time, providing invaluable insights into the political and social landscape of the era.

Exploring the Museum

Visitors to the Cromwell Museum can immerse themselves in the life and times of Oliver Cromwell through a variety of exhibits and displays. The museum's well-curated collection offers a comprehensive look at Cromwell's rise from a relatively obscure member of the gentry to one of the most powerful figures in British history.

One of the museum's highlights is its collection of portraits, which includes both formal and informal depictions of Cromwell and his family. These paintings offer a unique glimpse into the personal and political life of the man who would become Lord Protector of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The museum also features a range of military artifacts, including swords, armor, and other equipment from the 17th century. These items provide a tangible connection to the tumultuous period of the English Civil War, during which Cromwell emerged as a key military and political leader.

The Cromwell Collection

In addition to its main exhibits, the Cromwell Museum is closely associated with the Cromwell Collection, located in the nearby Huntingdon Library and Archive building. This extensive collection of material on Oliver Cromwell and his times is one of the most comprehensive outside of academic circles and is freely available to the public. Established in 2002 with the help of a grant from the Wolfson British History Programme, the Cromwell Collection is an invaluable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts alike.

A Visit to Remember

A visit to the Cromwell Museum is a journey through one of the most fascinating and turbulent periods in British history. Whether you are a dedicated historian or a curious traveler, the museum offers a wealth of information and insights into the life of Oliver Cromwell and the era he helped shape. From its historic building to its meticulously curated collections, the Cromwell Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of England's past.