Aldbourne Community Heritage Group

The Aldbourne Community Heritage Group (ACHG) is a UK-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and encouraging interest in the heritage and history of the village and parish of Aldbourne, located in North-East Wiltshire, England. It is registered as a charity under the number 1186866.

Overview

The ACHG operates the Aldbourne Heritage Centre, a local museum situated in the centre of Aldbourne village adjacent to The Crown Inn. The Heritage Centre presents a variety of exhibits that provide insights into Aldbourne’s extensive history, spanning prehistoric times through to the present day. The museum showcases artifacts ranging from Stone Age flints and medieval documents to 19th- and 20th-century photographs, reflecting the rich cultural and industrial past of the area, including bell making, weaving, and chair making[1][2][5].

Activities and Mission

The mission of the Aldbourne Community Heritage Group is to explore and disseminate knowledge about Aldbourne’s history for the benefit of the public[3]. Beyond maintaining the museum, the group organizes educational events such as talks and speaker meetings, usually held monthly at the Methodist Church, and these are often livestreamed and recorded for wider access. The group also conducts historical research, produces publications, and organizes guided tours around the village, including special tours tailored to American visitors interested in the village’s World War II connection with the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment of the 101st Airborne Division, famously featured in the "Band of Brothers" series[5].

Historical Significance

Aldbourne itself has a long and varied history, with evidence of human activity dating back to the Mesolithic era and continuous occupation from at least the early Romano-British period. The village name is of Saxon origin, possibly meaning "Aelda’s Stream." At the time of the Domesday Book, Aldbourne was a significant settlement, larger than nearby Newbury. The village endured challenges such as two devastating fires in the 18th century but also holds notable historical events, including its role during World War II when it hosted several military units and as a filming location for episodes of Doctor Who in 1971[5].

Partnerships and Membership

The Aldbourne Heritage Centre, managed by ACHG, is a member of the South Western Federation of Museums and Art Galleries. In 2015, it participated in the Wiltshire Museum’s project "Wiltshire's Story in 100 Objects," contributing an 18th-century crotal bell cast in Aldbourne as one of the significant historical objects[1].

Opening Times

The Heritage Centre is typically open during weekends and bank holidays in the summer season, with visits possible at other times by prior arrangement[1].

Through its museum, educational programs, and community engagement, the Aldbourne Community Heritage Group plays an essential role in preserving and celebrating the local heritage of Aldbourne for residents and visitors alike.

[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldbourne_Heritage_Centre [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aldbourne [3] https://aldbourneheritage.org.uk/achg/sample-page [4] https://www.wikiwand.com/en/articles/Aldbourne [5] http://aldbourneheritage.org.uk