Friends of Down Museum Celebrate 30th Anniversary.
The Friends of Down Museum celebrated their 30th anniversary this year at their annual dinner at the museum.
The group was founded in 1989 when a group of people came together to promote teh aims and objectives of the museum throughout the community of County Down and beyond.
The Friends group now has almost 200 members from across the world who play a vital part in developing the work of the museum.
Friends Chairperson Anne Liggett said: “During their 30 years the Friends have helped out with the cataloguing of the museum’s photographic collection, purchased objects for the museum’s collection, contributed to items as diverse as display cases for exhibitions and costume for education sessions, and have raised funds for a number of events and projects.
“They have assisted with funding for the display of the Downpatrick High Cross and for the conservation of art works. They are currently helping to fund a commissioned piece of art which will help interpret the stories of prisoners in the old Gaol”
Linda McKenna, Education Officer for Down County Museum, said: “Members of the group also enjoy a packed programme of social events. Every year trips to other museums and places of historical interest are organised and teh annual dinner is always an enjoyable evening. Members also participate in the museum’s community outreach projects and contribute to museum publications and research.
“The museum is very grateful to the vital contribution the Friends make to its work and would encourage local people and others from a across Down totake up a membership and get involved in supporting the museum’s community work.”
