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Lyme Regis Museum facts for kids

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Lyme Regis Philpot Museum
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The Lyme Regis Philpot Museum is a cool place to visit in the town of Lyme Regis. This town is located on the famous Jurassic Coast in Dorset, England. The museum building stands on the very spot where the famous fossil hunter, Mary Anning, used to live. Her home was there until 1826.

Coade stone Ammonites
Coade stone fossil ammonites in the pavement outside the museum.
Mary Anning Plaque
A blue plaque on the museum wall commemorates where Mary Anning was born and had her first fossil shop.

How the Museum Started

The idea for the museum building came about in 1901. It was planned by Thomas Philpot, whose relatives, the Philpot sisters, were also fossil collectors. They were good friends with Mary Anning.

The museum building was finished in 1902. It was designed by an architect named George Vialls. He also designed the nearby Guildhall, which is now the Town Hall.

What You Can See at the Museum

The museum has many interesting things to explore. You can see amazing fossils found in the area. These fossils are from the Jurassic period, which was millions of years ago!

The museum also teaches you about geology, which is the study of rocks and the Earth. You can learn about the town's history with the sea. There are also items related to famous writers who lived in Lyme Regis. These include Jane Austen and John Fowles.

Outside the museum, look down at the pavement! You'll see a special decoration made of Coade stone. It looks like ammonites, which are ancient sea creatures. This stone was invented by Eleanor Coade, who had a connection to the area. It also reminds everyone that Lyme Regis is famous for its fossils.

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