Delving into the past reveals Twickenham’s story. The Twickenham Museum stands before us a treasure trove of local history. But how did this museum come to be?
Let’s rewind to 1860. Thomas Twining of the famous tea merchants envisioned a technical museum. This museum would serve an educational purpose. It was manned by volunteers. Sadly, a fire destroyed it in 1871. It was not rebuilt.
Later, private collections found a temporary home at York House. These collections belonged to the Duc d’Orleans and Sir Ratan Tata. Tata was an Indian industrialist and philanthropist.
In 1904, the Borough Council acquired Radnor House. Their intention was to create a museum. However, it primarily served as storage. Donations awaited permanent display. A bomb destroyed the house in 1940.
York House hosted a small museum after 1924. The Council opened it. Volunteers ran it. The outbreak of the Second World War forced its closure in 1939.
Discussions arose to recreate a museum in the late 20th century. The aim was to celebrate life in Twickenham and surrounding areas. These included Whitton, Teddington and the Hamptons. These villages once formed the Borough of Twickenham.
The Twickenham Museum became a Registered Charity in 1993. It inherited 25 The Embankment. This property became the museum’s home.
The house itself has a story. Built around 1720, it is a Grade II listed building. It faces the river. It is next to the Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin. This is the oldest part of Twickenham. It stands on the local history trail. This trail runs from Richmond Bridge.
What are the aims of the Twickenham Museum? Firstly, it aims to create an electronic local studies archive. This website focuses on the history of riverside settlements. These settlements are on the Middlesex stretch of the Thames. They are within the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames.
Secondly, the museum collects and researches archives. It displays artefacts and information from Teddington, Twickenham, Whitton and the Hamptons.
Thirdly, the museum mounts exhibitions. These exhibitions reflect aspects of the area’s history. The Museum of London and Orleans House Gallery provide curatorial advice.
The Twickenham Museum makes its resources available. It is for those interested in the borough’s history. The museum encourages active interest and participation. Access remains free for all.
Step inside the Twickenham Museum. You will find a celebration of local heritage. The museum’s permanent exhibition showcases the history of the Twickenham area. It covers Twickenham, Whitton, Teddington, and the Hamptons. The exhibition spans thousands of years.
Rugby has a dedicated space. The Rugby Room highlights Twickenham’s connection to the sport. Twickenham is home to the first rugby stadium in the world. Discover the sport’s origins and evolution. See old photographs and jerseys.
The Twickenham Museum preserves history. It makes it accessible. It is thanks to dedicated volunteers. They ensure the stories of Twickenham live on. From its humble beginnings to its current location, the Twickenham Museum represents a community’s commitment to its past.