This Easter take a trip to Down County Museum and experience 9000 years of history in amazing exhibitions located in the historic County Gaol of Down.
Down County Museum is one of the most popular museums in Northern Ireland thanks to its lively displays and unique location in the restored eighteenth century Gaol of Down.
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At the recent St Patrick’s Conference held in the Down County Museum in Downpatrick were Mike King, Museum Curator, Cllr Gareth Sharvin, Vice Chairman of Down District Council, Finbar McCormick, archaeologist, South Down MP Margaret Ritchie and Johanna Vuolteenaho, NIEA.The museum has a full plan of activities for Easter.[/caption]This Easter, visitors can discover the conditions in which prisoners lived 200 years ago and travel even further back in time to learn more about County Down from earliest times. Linda McKenna, education officer said: “Our permanent exhibition on the history of the County, Down Through Time, is open in the Governor’s Residence building of the old Gaol.
“Over 1200 objects are showcased in fully accessible surroundings which have been planned with families in mind. As well as showing highlights of the museum’s diverse collections, hands-on activities include object based puzzles for children, replica dressing up costume, models to explore and historical games to play.
“The Museum also runs a programme of special exhibitions every year and this Easter visitors can see three very special exhibitions. Two Men of Mourne: Photographs by Pat Hudson and Cecil Newman showcases a selection of images from the Museum’s archive of photographs from these two South Down photographers.
“Digging Our Faith: Exploring Our Religious and Cultural Heritage is axa0 PEACE III funded exhibition created by the Downpatrick branch of the Young Archaeologists’ Club.xa0 The young members of the Club have created a colourful and thought provoking exploration of cultural traditions today and in the past.
“Ballynahinch: The Island Town is anotherxa0 PEACE III funded exhibition. Created by local community and school groups, details the changing face of Ballynahinch over the centuries.”
Special events for Easter are also available.xa0 On Easter Monday the Museum’s annual fun day event takes place. As well as magic shows performed by popular local entertainer Johnnie Kielty, families can also enjoy Easter egg painting, Easter crafts and special trails through the Museum galleries. The Museum is open from 10am to 5pm on Easter Monday and entertainment starts at 12 noon.
Admission to the Museum is free and the Museum shop and tearoom are open daily. The Museum is open throughout the Easter holidays from 10am to 5pm on weekdays (including Easter Monday) and from 1pm to 5pm on weekend days (including Easter Sunday).
For full details of the Museum’s exhibitions and events telephone 028 4461 5218.
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