
Heritage Open Days 2016
I hope many of you managed to get out and about for the free Heritage Open Days this last weekend.
I got a sneak peak at the Ptolemy Maps in the Wisbech and Fenland Museum Library last week, it is amazing to see something like that in a local museum, not have to travel to a large city. They are beautiful; successive editions demonstrating how our understanding of the world grew as more was discovered on expeditions. The display also included old local maps, which show the town’s development. The resources held in one relatively small building are fantastic, worth a visit, not just on special days.
“Just One Card” is an online project to support artists/makers to make a living from their work. It suggests that spending just a small amount adds up and is worth it to the artist, I think the same applies to all cultural places, so I always buy a little something. In the case of the Museum, their fossils and rocks are great value (from 50p!) – especially for Dinosaur enthusiasts, Minecraft fans and jewellery makers!
Another free local resource is the Reading Tree in Market Place, Wisbech. What a great idea! There are children’s books in cupboards around the tree, and a seat all around. You can pick a couple of books out, read to, and with, your children and then pop them back for the next family. The area is a social place to meet and chat with everyone, just what a Market Place should be.
To keep with the “free” theme – there’s a Poetry Workshop this Friday, 16th, at Wisbech Library 2-4pm. With former Fenland Poet Laureate Poppy Kleiser, everyone is welcome to “explore the joy of writing poetry”.
Also at the Library, on National Poetry Day, Saturday October 1st, there will be a fun event where you can recite your own poetry, or a favourite piece; or just come along to support a friend, all welcome. More details on their way, so keep a eye on posters at the library.
My most recent Hidden Gem discovered this week is Stackwell Forge. They make gates (including electrically operated), railings, staircases etc. They’ve done some amazing work internationally, but also work locally, so I’m going back to find out more for a future article. If you need something, give them a call on 01945 700666 (great number!)
Lorena can be contacted on lorena@redbarncreative.org.uk