Oxfordshire Museum marks 60 years since opening in Woodstock
Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 19 Oct, 06:01 · Archive
The Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock, which opened on 15 October 1966, has marked its diamond jubilee with special events and tributes.
The Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock officially opened its doors on 15 October 1966 and has since become a hub for exploring Oxfordshire's rich heritage. Housed in the historic Fletchers House, where people have lived on the site since 1279, the museum has welcomed generations of families, schoolchildren and visitors through its exhibitions, events and educational programmes.
The museum faced possible closure in the early 1990s due to budget pressures, but public support helped secure lottery funding for a major renovation. This added new galleries, a café and a shop. In 2009, the museum added a Megalosaurus and fossilised dinosaur footprints to create a Dinosaur Garden featuring Jurassic-era plants, which received national media attention and was promoted by wildlife presenter Chris Packham.
Councillor Neil Fawcett, Deputy Leader of Oxfordshire County Council, said the milestone was 'a wonderful opportunity to celebrate everything that makes the museum special'. He attributed its success to 'the dedication of staff, volunteers, the Friends and everyone who has supported it over the years'. Today the museum attracts around 115,000 visitors annually, offering exhibitions and activities for all ages.
How it is being reported
- Oxfordshire museum celebrates 60 years of history and heritageThe Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock officially opened its doors on October 15, 1966.Oxford Mail · 19 Oct, 05:00
- Oxfordshire museum celebrates 60 years of history and heritageThe Oxfordshire Museum in Woodstock officially opened its doors on October 15, 1966.Oxfordshire Guardian · 19 Oct, 05:00
In this story: Oxfordshire Museum · Woodstock · Oxfordshire · Neil Fawcett · Chris Packham · Oxfordshire County Council
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