The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
The Spalding Gentlemen’s Society museum will open its doors to the public on Sunday, January 21.
The open day at Broad Street, Spalding, will allow access to the artworks and antiques that the society has collected over the last 300 years.
Heather Violett from the society said visitors can expect a “step back in time” into the “Edwardian building crammed with exhibits and historic wonders, and friendly stewards on hand to provide information and answer questions”.
Artwork lining the stairs.
Heather added: “The society’s collection fascinates our visitors. There is something of interest for everyone: archaeological finds, historic maps and books, paintings, local history archives, tableware, photographs, coins, medals, stamps and so much more, including some quite quirky items, collected by members or donated over
the 300 years of the society’s history.”
The society’s archives are also a useful resource.
“Some of our visitors decide to become members for family history or other research. We welcome anyone over 18 with an interest in the society’s resources,” Heather said.
The society is hoping to offer an open day every month in 2018. Heather said specialist groups, school visits and individuals can also visit upon request (email visits@sgsoc.org for details).
The open day is open to everyone, Heather stressed.
“A survey of non-users of the society last year indicated that many people still think of the Spalding Gentlemen’s Society as exclusively for ‘gentlemen’, despite our efforts to dispel this myth,” she said.
“The society is an accredited museum and it is only the constraints of our old building and volunteer management which prevent us from being open on a more regular basis.”
After this weekend’s open day, the next event will be on February 18. See the website http://sgsoc.org for more details. The open day runs from 2pm-5pm.
