Peat Moors Centre facts for kids
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| Location | Westhay, Nr Glastonbury, Somerset |
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The Peat Moors Centre was a special museum in Somerset, England. It was located between the villages of Shapwick and Westhay. This centre helped visitors learn about the ancient history and nature of the Somerset Levels. Sadly, Somerset County Council closed the centre in October 2009 because of budget cuts.
Contents
Discovering the Peat Moors Centre
The Peat Moors Centre was a unique place dedicated to understanding the Somerset Levels. It focused on the archaeology, history, and geology of this interesting area. Archaeology is the study of human history through digging up old things. Geology is the study of Earth's rocks and soil.
Recreating Ancient Life
One of the most exciting parts of the centre was its amazing reconstructions. These were like real-life models of ancient discoveries. You could see Iron Age round houses, just like those found at Glastonbury Lake Village. The Iron Age was a time in history when people started using iron tools.
The centre also featured a reconstruction of the Sweet Track. This is the world's oldest known engineered highway! It was built over 6,000 years ago across the marshy land. Imagine walking on a path built by people so long ago!
Fun Activities and Learning
The Peat Moors Centre wasn't just about looking at old things. It also offered exciting courses where you could learn ancient skills. These included making textiles (like cloth), clothing, and even baskets. The centre also held special open days, displays, and demonstrations. These events helped visitors see how people lived and worked thousands of years ago.
Why the Centre Closed
The Peat Moors Centre was owned by Somerset County Council. Unfortunately, the council decided to close the centre on October 31, 2009. This decision was made because of budget cuts, meaning they had less money to spend.
Hopes for a New Project
Even though the centre closed, the people who worked there had a new idea. They hoped to start a new project called the 'Somerset Lake Village Project'. This new project would be run by a special group called a community interest company. Their plan was to build a new reconstruction of an Iron Age lake village. This would continue the important work of teaching people about Somerset's amazing past.
Images for kids
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Peat gatherers at Westhay, Somerset Levels
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Peat stacks and cutting at Westhay, Somerset Levels
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Harvesting the peat at Westhay, Somerset Levels
