In pictures: Rutland County Museum celebrates 50 years of history and community

By The Editor

18th Oct 2019 | Local News

Rutland County Museum marked 50 years of history and community with a special celebration attended by more than 130 guests.

The Oakham museum has been celebrating its 50th anniversary throughout this year, having been officially opened by the Duchess of Gloucester in May 1969.

The special 50th birthday celebration took place last Friday (11 Oct) with entertainment, live music, food and drink.

Coun Lucy Stephenson, Rutland County Council's Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, said: "This was a wonderful way to celebrate 50 years of Rutland County Museum and I would like to thank everyone who made the evening so special.

"The museum is much more than a piece of history, it's an important community space with a special place in many of our hearts.

"The building, the displays and the incredible staff all help to make it a truly unique attraction in our region.

"The tireless work of the Rutland Local History and Record Society and the Friends of the Museum and Castle has also been an essential part of the preservation this heritage.

"The careful identification and acquisition of artefacts has been crucial to keeping the museum interesting and relevant, as shown by its 18,000 visitors each year."

"It's been a tremendous privilege to oversee this year's 50th anniversary celebrations.

"With the unveiling of a brand new artefact and a visit by His Royal Highness the Duke of Gloucester yet to come there's still lots more to look forward to."

The new artefact is a rare Anglo-Saxon gold buckle - only the fourth to be found in England.

It will go on show at the museum on Wednesday (23 Oct). For the full story click on the red button below.

Rutland County Museum is open from 10am until 4pm on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday and entry is free.