Melksham and District Historical Association has made the first steps towards realising its long-standing goal of establishing a museum for the town, with the launch of a pop-up display at the town hall.
Artefacts that would otherwise remain in storage in Bowerhill are now on display, offering a fascinating glimpse into Melksham’s past.
“This is our first tentative step towards trying to open a museum for Melksham,” explained the association’s chair, Paul Carter, who hopes to fulfil the association’s original charter from 1962, which aimed to establish a museum in the town.
The exhibition will be updated regularly and may also be themed to coincide with key town events, such as the carnival or the annual Remembrance parade.
“I think anything that brings the past to the forefront is a good idea,” said Paul. “If you don’t see it, you forget it. It’s important to bring the items forward and develop conversation.”
The current display at the town hall is themed ‘Melksham’s Lost Industries’, featuring small artefacts and photographs showcasing the town’s rich industrial heritage.
“There are old photos of the dairy that is now the Avonside Enterprise Park and we are displaying a top from a milk churn that was used there. There are also photos from a feather factory, which produced pillows and cushions from the late 1800s to the 1900s.”
Ongoing campaign
The campaign to open a dedicated museum in Melksham has been ongoing for several years.
In 2023, the historical association launched a survey to gauge public interest, with results showing strong support for the idea. Respondents felt a museum would be a valuable resource, particularly for schools. A visitors’ book will soon be placed at the exhibition to gather further feedback.
The Friends of the Assembly Hall group also suggested that a museum could be established at the former Blue Pool and Assembly Hall site if the town council proceeds with plans to amalgamate the buildings.
While discussions about a permanent museum space continue, residents are encouraged to explore the display at the town hall, where a photograph of a worker making a tyre at Avon is currently on show—though the individual remains unidentified.
Paul added, “If anyone can identify the person in the picture, that would be really helpful.”
Above: a photograph from the exhibition. Does anyone know this man? The Melksham and District Historical Association would like to know!
The man in the picture is Richard Neat he trained me when I moved to the racing department.