Since the 1970s, Shipston-on-Stour has had its very own museum right in the centre of town, founded by Mike Ashley and Dick Burge. The museum is run by the Shipston-on-Stour and District Local History Society and is packed full of memorabilia centred on the town’s rich history, with interesting artefacts, antiquities and curios in abundance.

In addition to photographs, the museum also houses documents, household goods, tools, coins, machinery and books, remains of the horse-drawn tramway, items relating to Shipston-on-Stour’s wool heritage and even objects from WWI and WWII.

Earlier this year, it was thought that Shipston Museum may have to close its doors following the sad passing of Mike Ashley, but town councillors have stepped in to save it, offering a new permanent home for the attraction at Old Clark House on West Street.

Bekki Hillman, from the History Society, said: “This is great news, there’s a lot of excitement locally about it and it’s opened up a lot of interest in the museum. It’s great that the Town Council have stepped in to help and hopefully we can get the mayor there for our grand reopening.”

Cllr Shelagh Saunders said: “The museum has been housed in Mike’s home so now it does have to be moved. It is currently opening on a part-time basis at Old Clark House on a Thursday and Friday 1-4pm and on Saturdays 11am-4pm. After Christmas it will close for redecoration before a grand reopening at Easter. It’s a great setting and it’s accessible. The museum will house a large collection of farming and veterinary equipment displays about Shipston’s wool industry and the Royal British Legion will also be showing some of their items.”

Here at Shipston Lodge, we’re delighted to hear that the museum has found new premises and we can’t wait to take our residents from Shipston Lodge along for a look around. With so many old photos in the museum, it wouldn’t be surprising if somebody spotted a relative or two!

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