We are giving Dave a month off for the March issue – don’t worry he’ll be back! Instead, we are using the opportunity for a couple of others from the Hub Team to keep you up to date with developments.
First of all, this from Colin, written for other purposes but very relevant here:
The Heritage Hub is a free and much valued resource that was created for the community following the dreams of its benefactor, the late Molly Coombe who lived her whole life in Bishopsteignton.
This year will see Molly’s dream take another step forward as the Hawkins room at the Community Centre becomes a museum that will house an ever-changing display of artefacts and collections that celebrate the history of the village that she loved.
It brings people together to share in the historic experiences of our community’s past and how people and days that are long gone, influence how we now live. To view what we have achieved today it is important to occasionally gaze into the past through memories, pictures, objects and shared stories.
The Heritage Hub promotes understanding and appreciation of many lifetimes of cultures and traditions by recording, researching, collecting, digitising and preserving historical records, memories and photos to be shared with the community, historians and visitors from many parts of the world which ultimately strengthens both creative and social bonds while connecting older and younger generations.
Sharing our heritage is a powerful way to connect people.
Engaging in heritage activities is stimulating. Whatever your interests, skills or even not sure, there are many benefits in being part of the heritage team. Researching, for example uses problem solving, challenging thinking and creating presentations. Other jobs bring their own benefits.
The experience of being part of the heritage team, digitising, sorting, meeting and greeting, making a cuppa, researching, talking with visitors brings fun, pleasure, pride and a sense of accomplishment.
Colin Back
To this, we would like to add:
Get Involved!
As Colin has said we are expanding our services. This means that more than ever we need you to bring us your objects – whether you wish to loan or permanently gift them to us so we can add to our catalogue and display in the new museum on behalf of the community.
Telling the “Story of Bishopsteignton” is what we do, but we need you to bring us the stories in the first place.
Alternatively there are stories out there to be found. More than ever we need help with research – especially into some of the areas and times we have not been able to get around to yet. People, places and events from pre-history, Roman, Viking, Medieval or Tudor times are just some of the eras that contribute to our rich heritage in Bishopsteignton that need some work done.
Or tell us what interests you – even if it’s just so we look into it for you!
We can help you with advice and training to carry out research on the Parish and beyond and your own family trees (whether you were born here or not).
As we will be open longer and more frequently, we will be also looking for volunteers to meet and greet and learn to guide visitors to whatever subjects they are interested in.
There will be opportunities to get involved in making informational videos, articles on the website, exhibitions, talks and events – you don’t have to be an expert to join in but if you do have experience that would be great too!
So, if you or anyone you know, of any age, would be interested in joining the team please do not hesitate to get in touch – we’re an easy bunch to get on with and what we do is a lot of fun. Or get in touch just to let us know what you would like to see in the museum – it all helps.
Current opening hours at the Hub at the Community Centre are:
11 – 4 Fridays
10 – 12 Saturdays
Email us at [email protected]
Hope to hear from you soon!
The Hub Team