Step back to the 1950s at castle’s new exhibition
LAVISH Living: Worcestershire in the 1950s, is the new permanent exhibition at Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle that gives visitors a nostalgic look at life in the 1950s. The exhibition officially opens from Sunday, July 4.
Lavish Living allows visitors to step back into the past, with immersive interior sets including a 1950s Milk Bar and items from the museum collection such as period costumes, a jukebox, and one of the first ever dishwashers.
Claire Cheshire, curator at Worcestershire County Museum said: “We are delighted to welcome people to this exhibition. We had such a lot of fun putting it together. We really hope it captures the excitement and optimism of the era and that some of our visitors enjoy a nostalgic trip back in time to their youth.”
The 1950s is sometimes referred to as the ‘optimistic’ decade. Although some of the hardships of the previous decades lingered on – some items were still being rationed as late as 1954 – Britain’s economy boomed and living standards rose rapidly too. Britain entered a new era of consumption, with laboursaving devices like vacuum cleaners and washing machines becoming the norm rather than the exception.
For the first time working people had spare money and, crucially, increasing amounts of spare time in which to spend it.
It was a time of exciting cultural change: the golden age of cinema, the emergence of Rock ’n’ Roll and the increasing popularity of television, all transformed leisure time for the masses.
There will be something for the whole family to enjoy including activities for children, a quiz to test visitors’ knowledge and a notice board where those who remember the ’50s can contribute their memories.
Prize
When the exhibition opens officially on July 4, 11am – 4pm, staff and volunteers will be dressed in ’50s style and visitors are welcome to join in – there will be a prize for the best dressed! Get into the swing of things and enjoy music by the Bluebird Belles, who will be singing popular songs from the period in the castle’s Great Hall. Children can get crafty with 1950s-inspired activities to make and take home too.
Hartlebury Castle was home to the Bishops of Worcester for 1,000 years. Set in the heart of the Worcestershire
countryside the castle is owned by Hartlebury Castle Preservation Trust and is a much-loved visitor attraction, wining the Visit England ‘Hidden Gem’ award for two years running. It is also home to the Worcestershire County Museum, and includes state rooms, themed galleries, historic grounds and wonderful collections of costume, toys and a national collection of gypsy caravans.
Hartlebury Castle is open Tuesday to Friday, 10am – 5pm and Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 11am – 5pm. For information on admission prices visit: www.hartle burycastle.com