Woodchurch Museum Trust

The Woodchurch Museum Trust is a UK nonprofit organisation with charity number 800959. It operates the Woodchurch Village Life Museum, which is dedicated to the social history of the parish of Woodchurch and its immediate environment.

Overview

The Woodchurch Village Life Museum is situated in a picturesque Kent village, housed in an eighteenth-century oak-framed barn and a seventeenth-century cart shed. The museum's collection is diverse, featuring artefacts that range from the Stone Age to the present day, all of which are connected to the parish of Woodchurch.

Collection and Activities

The museum offers a wide array of exhibits, including farm wagons, an elegant Brougham coach, Stone Age and Roman artefacts, historic agricultural tools, and household items from the 1920s, '30s, and '40s. It also explores significant historical events such as the construction of an American airbase during World War II and the experiences of local people during wartime, including rationing and women's roles in the Land Army. The museum features audio recordings of villagers sharing personal experiences, offering a unique insight into the village's history.

In addition to historical exhibits, the museum supports family history research through its archive section. It is also a supporter of Kids in Museums and offers child-friendly activities, such as a picture quiz designed for all ages.

Accessibility

The museum's ground floor exhibition space is fully accessible for wheelchair users and visitors with reduced mobility, ensuring that all visitors can enjoy the displays.

Purpose and Impact

The Woodchurch Museum Trust aims to preserve and share the rich history of Woodchurch with the community and beyond. By providing a comprehensive view of village life through various historical periods, it serves as a valuable educational resource and a cultural hub for the local area.

Operation

The museum opens annually from April to October on Saturdays, Sundays, and Bank Holidays, offering free entry to visitors. It serves as a community-focused centre, highlighting the significance of preserving local heritage for future generations.

[1] https://woodchurchheritagetrust.uk [2] https://kent.wheelsoftime.uk/woodchurch-village-life-museum/ [3] https://www.accessable.co.uk/visit-kent/access-guides/woodchurch-village-life-museum [4] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/800959/full-print [5] https://heritage.ashfordmuseum.org.uk/museum-and-heritage-trail/woodchurch-village-life-museum/