The Museum of Somerset is marking 150 years of protecting and celebrating the county’s rich heritage with a series of talks, tours and family-friendly activities. Since the museum first opened in July 1875, it has become a vital and much-loved part of the community as well as an important regional institution.
The museum began with the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society. Founded in 1849 by ‘several gentlemen of Taunton and its neighbourhood’, they wanted to study all aspects of Somerset history and were enthusiastic collectors of archives, objects and books. They were also keen to create a museum. In 1874 the society bought Taunton Castle and on July 12 the following year the museum was opened. 
The county museum now attracts more than 80,000 visitors every year including 7,000 school children on educational visits. Amongst the many spotlight loans that have proved popular with visitors are the Alfred Jewel and portrait of Henry VII. Memorable exhibitions have explored Somerset stories and people including the Monmouth Rebellion and Samuel Taylor Coleridge.
Family favourites have included Horrible Histories illustrator Martin Brown and art by Axel Scheffler, best known for the Gruffalo. Other exhibitions have celebrated Somerset artists including Doris Hatt, Tristram Hillier, Alexander Hollweg and Rachel Reckitt. In October last year the South West Heritage Trust announced the record-breaking acquisition of the Chew Valley Hoard of 2,584 coins from the time of the Norman Conquest.
The museum is managed through a partnership between the South West Heritage Trust, the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society and Somerset Council, with support from Arts Council England and Taunton Town Council.
Sam Astill, Chief Executive of the South West Heritage Trust, said: “The Museum of Somerset holds a special place in our community and is deeply valued by people of all ages. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary, we honour the enduring power of museums to inspire, entertain and educate.
“This milestone is also an opportunity to acknowledge the many individuals and organisations that make it all possible—particularly our friends and partners at the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society, owners of Taunton Castle and many of the much-loved collections on display.”
Lizzie Induni, Chair of the Somerset Archaeological and Natural History Society said: “It is a wonderful tribute to the members of the society who sought to preserve Taunton Castle 150 years ago that it is now a thriving and much-loved county museum.”
The 150th anniversary event programme includes an afternoon talk with the museum’s curator Amal Khreisheh, an evening lecture by historian Tom Mayberry and special tours of the museum collections. There is also a three-day birthday party taking place over October half term.
Booking is required for some events. See the full programme at museumofsomerset.org.uk
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