Wealth of Council memorabilia at Dannevirke Gallery of History

A visit to Dannevirkeos Gallery of History is a pmustq for all history buffs, especially those wanting to learn more about the early days of our wonderful district s Tararua.

While the Gallery, which is situated in the pOld Court Houseq in Gordon Street, contains a wealth of historical information about Tararua and the establishment of our towns, it also contains an impressive collection of memorabilia such as old maps, photos, business and school records, family histories and even natural history specimens.

Among its extensive array of artefacts from pyesteryearq is a wealth of memorabilia and information relating to Council.

Displays include former Mayoral Chains, the gavels used by the former Dannevirke and Akitio County Councils, the silver trowel that on the 2 August 1911 was used to lay the foundation stone for the Dannevirke Town Hall, and the impressive Mayoral Chair that was presented to the Mayor in 1917 by the Chairman of the Dannevirke County Council.

Joy Kopa, Tararua District Council records and information manager, says as well as housing many of Councils artefacts, the Gallery is also home to all of Councilos preamalgamation photos and contains many Council archives.

Mrs Kopa says, itos important to preserve the districts history but unfortunately many of New Zealandos small museums are folding due to lack of support. We cannot allow this to happen to our local museums s they are the caretakers of our past.

pIt important to encourage people to support the Gallery and to acknowledge the volunteers who give their time freely to keep it running,q says Mrs Kopa.

On the 16 September, the Dannevirke Gallery of History will be celebrating its 30th anniversary with an Open Day from 1pm to 4pm, providing an opportunity for anyone with an interest in local history to learn more. Even if you are not a history buff s call in s you may be surprised by what you find there.