Dorchester Abbey Museum facts for kids
The Dorchester Abbey Museum is a fascinating local museum located in the town of Dorchester, Oxfordshire, England. It is right next to the historic Dorchester Abbey, making it a great place to learn about the area's past.
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Discover Dorchester Abbey Museum
The museum is spread across two interesting buildings that are part of the Dorchester Abbey site. These buildings help tell the story of Dorchester and its famous Abbey.
The Old Schoolroom
One part of the museum is called the Old Schoolroom. This building was once a guest house for the Abbey, built way back in the 14th century. Inside, you can explore many different displays. These include old objects, pictures, and maps. They show how people have lived in Dorchester and the surrounding areas for over 6,000 years! The Old Schoolroom also keeps a collection of historical documents and records.
The Cloister Gallery
The other part of the museum is the Cloister Gallery. This is a newer section, built in 2001. It features a special permanent exhibition called "If Stones Could Speak." This exhibit uses a collection of carved and shaped medieval stonework from the Abbey. Each stone helps to tell the Abbey's long and rich history. It's like the stones themselves are sharing their secrets!
A Special Recognition
In 2006, the Cloister Gallery at Dorchester Abbey Museum was chosen as a finalist for the Gulbenkian Prize. This award celebrates museums and galleries that do amazing work. Being short-listed for such a prize shows how special and important the museum's exhibits are.
