The Wroughton museum, based at the Maunsell Way Pavailion, opened for the first time on Saturday, April 4, and saw locals flock to see the exhibitions and take a walk down memory lane.
The museum, which is free to enter, preserves the memories of Wroughton and Swindon, as well as documenting its history with photo albums, stories from the village during World War Two, and exhibitions focused on specific shops and local trade.
It’s been set up by Wroughton History Group, which has been running since 1977. The building that the museum sits in was originally built as a local football club but has been unused since 2021.
John Hewer, Chairman of Wroughton Parish Council (Image: Jason Spickett)
It has now been leased by Swindon Borough Council to Wroughton Parish Council for this purpose, and the history group say it’s the perfect site for reflecting on the past while also looking forward to the building’s future.
Royston Cartwright, a local historian who was one of the first to view the new museum, said: “A lot of people have put a massive amount of effort in to make this happen.
“A little museum yes, but it packs a huge punch. Remember our largest native tree starts from a little acorn.
“The Volunteers have worked on this day for years, in fact from 1977 when the history group first started and now they have achieved it.
The grand opening of Wroughton History Group Museum (Image: Jason Spickett)
The museum is filled with local treasures from the past (Image: Jason Spickett)
“There is something for everyone in this museum, plus plenty of free parking.
“You will find items on Toys, uniforms, old newspapers, books, photos, maps, certificates, houses, tools, magazines, buildings not to mention the War, I said not to mention the War Pike.”
A spokesperson for Wroughton Parish Council added: “The parish council is delighted to share the exciting news that the Wroughton History Group’s brand-new museum will officially open its doors.
“The grand opening will feature an exhibition of Wroughton’s historic shops and trades, along with fascinating photo albums and stories from the village during WWII.
“Entry is completely free, with tea, coffee and biscuits available for visitors. We hope residents will take a look, and support this fantastic community initiative.
“We wish the History Group every success and extend our congratulations on this wonderful achievement for Wroughton.”
