Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery Limited (Charity number: 1108817) is a registered UK nonprofit organisation dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and culture of Petersfield, Hampshire. Established in 1999, the Museum and Art Gallery has grown into a prominent cultural centre featuring a diverse collection spanning archaeology, art, historic dress, literature, photography, poetry, and social history.

History

The organisation originated with the Petersfield Area Historical Society’s founding of the original Petersfield Museum in 1999. Initially housed in the magistrates’ courthouse behind the town’s police station, the museum was run entirely by volunteers committed to preserving local heritage. In 2016, the Museum acquired the adjacent Old Police Station, enabling significant expansion.

Between 2017 and 2021, Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery underwent a transformative redevelopment project named Pathways into the Past. Supported by nearly £4 million from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, this extensive overhaul modernised the facilities and broadened the museum’s capacity to engage with the public through exhibitions, events, and educational programmes.

Location and Facilities

The Museum and Art Gallery occupies two historic buildings on St Peter's Road in Petersfield: the former magistrates’ courthouse (built 1893) and the Old Police Station (built 1858). The latter was originally designed by Thomas Stopher for Hampshire Constabulary and included accommodation for police officers, cells, stables, and a cart house.

Today, the combined site houses exhibitions, a shop, a coffee shop, and the Edward Thomas Study Centre, further enhancing its role as a cultural hub for the local community.

Collections and Activities

Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery tells the story of the town and its surrounding region through a rich variety of artefacts and artistic works. Its collections include archaeological finds, historical garments, literary archives, and photographic displays, alongside contemporary art exhibitions.

Beyond exhibitions, the organisation hosts a wide range of community events and educational activities, making it a vibrant centre for learning and cultural engagement in Hampshire.

Governance

As a registered charity, Petersfield Museum and Art Gallery Limited operates with trustees overseeing its mission to preserve Petersfield’s heritage and promote the arts. It continues to be supported by volunteers and funding bodies to sustain its development and outreach.

This institution stands as a significant example of a local history museum evolving into a modern cultural venue while maintaining strong community roots.

[1] https://www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk/history-petersfield [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petersfield_Museum [3] https://www.petersfieldmuseum.co.uk [4] https://www.artfund.org/explore/museums-and-galleries/petersfield-museum [5] https://steepvillage.com/businesses/petersfield-museum-and-art-gallery/