Wisbech & Fenland Museum

Step into the enchanting world of the Wisbech & Fenland Museum, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Wisbech, Cambridgeshire. One of the oldest purpose-built museums in the United Kingdom, this cultural treasure trove offers an immersive journey through time, showcasing the rich heritage of the Fenland region and beyond.

A Glimpse into the Past

Founded in 1835, the Wisbech & Fenland Museum has a storied history that reflects the evolution of the region it represents. Originally housed in two rooms of a private residence, the museum moved to its current location in 1847. The building, a stunning example of 19th-century architecture, was designed by George Buckler and has been a Grade II* listed building since its inception. The museum’s opening was marked by a lecture from Professor Adam Sedgwick, a notable figure from Trinity College, Cambridge, and attended by distinguished guests including Major General Sir Harry Smith and Lord George Manners.

Exhibits that Tell a Story

The museum’s extensive collections offer a fascinating look into various aspects of local and global history. One of the most significant exhibits is the original manuscript of Charles Dickens' Great Expectations, bequeathed to the museum by Reverend Chauncy Hare Townshend in 1863. This priceless artifact is a testament to the museum’s commitment to preserving literary history.

Another highlight is the collection related to Thomas Clarkson, a prominent anti-slavery campaigner. Clarkson’s chest, containing examples of 18th-century African textiles, seeds, and leatherwork, is a poignant reminder of his efforts to promote direct trade with Africa and abolish the transatlantic slave trade.

Local and Social History

The museum’s local history collection is a treasure trove of artifacts that illustrate the cultural and economic development of the Fenland region. From agricultural implements and drainage tools to fishing equipment and domestic objects, these exhibits provide a window into the lives of the people who shaped the area. The museum also features items related to the town’s shipping industry, crime and punishment, and the once-thriving woad growing industry.

Visitors can explore a variety of exhibits, including bill posters from the Georgian Angles Theatre, one of the oldest purpose-built theatres in the country, and a model of a woad mill at Parson Drove. The uppermost gallery houses a display of items linked to the Cambridgeshire Regiment, offering insights into the region’s military history.

Manuscripts and Natural History

The museum’s manuscript collection is a bibliophile’s dream, featuring works such as Hours of Idleness by Lord Byron and The Monk by Matthew Lewis. These literary treasures are complemented by the museum’s natural history collection, which includes local, British, and international geology, paleontology, conchology, and botany specimens. Highlights include ichthyosaurs, belemnites, sea urchins, and shark teeth, as well as a herbarium featuring early 19th-century specimens collected by William Skrimshire.

Archaeological Wonders

The museum’s archaeological collection offers a comprehensive look at the development of Fenland life from prehistoric times to the recent past. The Romano-British collection features fine examples of pottery and a skeleton of a 1,700-year-old woman from Coldham. The jewel of the museum’s Celtic material is the highly decorated Iron Age Wisbech Scabbard, found locally by Samuel Smith.

The museum also acquires finds from local archaeological digs, including the 2009 dig at Wisbech Castle. In 2018, a community dig on the museum grounds, conducted in partnership with the Wisbech High Street project and Fenland Archaeological Society, unearthed fascinating artifacts that provide further insights into the region’s rich history.

Ancient Egyptian Collection

The museum’s Victorian collection of Egyptian artifacts offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and beliefs of this ancient civilization. Highlights include a dismembered mummified hand, a mummified cat, and various idol figures and canopic jars. This collection is particularly popular with school groups and visitors interested in ancient history.

Art and Photography

The museum’s art collection features paintings and sculptures of international and local figures, including Napoleon, Charles I of England, and Thomas Clarkson. The photography collection is equally impressive, with 19th-century photographs of Wisbech and the surrounding area, as well as early images of Madagascar taken by William Ellis, a prominent member of the London Missionary Society.

Visiting the Museum

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a literature lover, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the Wisbech & Fenland Museum has something for everyone. The museum is open from 10 am to 4 pm, Tuesday to Saturday, with a £5 admission fee for adults, which grants a year-long season ticket. While it is usually closed on Sundays, it occasionally opens on Bank Holidays, offering more opportunities for visitors to explore its fascinating collections.

In conclusion, the Wisbech & Fenland Museum is not just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant testament to the rich and diverse history of the Fenland region. Its collections tell stories of local and global significance, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the past and understanding the present.