John Bunyan Museum facts for kids
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| Established | 1998 |
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| Location | Mill Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, England, United Kingdom |
| Type | Biographical museum |
The John Bunyan Museum is a special place in Bedford, Bedfordshire, England. It tells the story of John Bunyan, a famous writer and preacher. The museum shows what his life was like and shares his important works.
Contents
Who Was John Bunyan?
John Bunyan lived a long time ago, from 1628 to 1688. He was a Christian writer and preacher. He was born in a small village called Harrowden, near Bedford, in England. John Bunyan wrote a very famous book called The Pilgrim's Progress. Many people consider it one of the most well-known Christian stories ever written. The Church of England remembers him every year on August 30.
The Museum's Story
In 1672, John Bunyan's church group bought a barn. They used this barn for their worship services. Later, a church was built on that very spot. It became known as the Bunyan Meeting Free Church. A new church building was constructed in 1849, and people still use it for services today.
The museum itself is a newer building. It was built in 1998 right next to the church. Before that, John Bunyan's items were kept in a small room inside the church. When the new museum opened, all these special things were moved there.
What You Can See at the Museum
The John Bunyan Museum has cool displays that show scenes from Bunyan's life. These displays also give you a peek into what life was like in Bedford in the 1600s. You can see some amazing objects that belonged to John Bunyan. These include his unique iron violin and a wooden flute. There's also a stoneware jug he used when he was in prison. You can even see his last will and a special old copy of The Pilgrim's Progress.
Other Places to Explore
- The Higgins Art Gallery & Museum – This is Bedford's main museum and art gallery. It's located right across from the John Bunyan Museum.
- Elstow Moot Hall – This old market house is in Elstow village. It has a small museum about life in the 1600s and John Bunyan's work.
- Harlington Manor – This house is believed to be the only building still standing where John Bunyan stayed. He was questioned and briefly held there in 1660.
More Information
- John Bunyan Museum official website: http://www.bunyanmeeting.co.uk/museum/
- Moot Hall official website: http://www.bedford.gov.uk/leisure_and_culture/local_history_and_heritage/the_moot_hall.aspx
