For those who look back into the past to understand better who they are or where they have come from, the trail inevitably takes them to hatches, matches, and despatches, or indeed the job of work undertaken. Simply put, all the necessary facts.

But what about the things that brought colour and excitement to people’s lives? The things they chose to do. What about the seasonal festivities or historic landmark events? Surely, to understand really how life was lived, we need to consider the things that people chose to do with their spare time.

For those wishing to take a glimpse into those special days and hours, there’s a free local exhibition in the Purton Museum entitled ‘Purton At Leisure’ that they won’t want to miss.

This new exhibition, which opened on 1st April 2023, provides a window into the world of all those experiences that have brought joy and respite to Purton residents over the years. The community activities, regular clubs and special occasions created lasting memories. It’s well worth a visit so why not make time for a tour?

Step through the inner doors with attractive stained-glass panels at the entrance.

Take a pause as you climb the traditional wooden staircase, which spirals towards the museum, to look at the catalogue detailing the Festival of Village Life held at St Mary’s Church in 1988 and explore how the programme details all the clubs, groups and activities of the time.

Enjoy the event posters boldly proclaiming the opening of our Village Hall, the ‘Mobile Talkie Pictures’, or indeed the ‘Grand Bank Holiday Fete’ with ‘Numerous Attractions & Sideshows’, which must have offered an abundance of fun and frivolity!

Once inside the museum take note of the glass boxed cabinet festooned with union flag bunting. This showcases coronation treasures associated with George VI and our beloved Queen Elizabeth II, both evoking the grandeur of the past and teasing at the pageantry of this coming May’s Coronation.

Step across the floor to take a journey into the history of ‘Purton’s Helping Hand Carnivals’ with an array of press coverage, photographs and programmes which allow you to glimpse into events over many years, whilst offering a chance to spot your friends and family.

Take your time investigating the nostalgic collection of black and white images covering ‘Empire Day’, ‘The Purton Wiltshire Moonrakers’, ‘The Purton Bohemian Band’ and ‘The Purton Old Band’ – all with those most austere of facial expressions!

Reminisce with the contents of the glass cabinet containing treasures of the ‘Purton & District Age Concern Horse & Dog Show and Gymkhana’ as well as discovering the details of how some of the most famous modern Royals enjoyed their day in Purton!

Explore the history of our many sporting events, clubs, and societies, including the Purton Half Marathon, the Women’s Institute, the Purton Cycle Speedway Team (The Purton Panthers), cricket, bowls, and our treasured public houses.

Finally, before you leave, take the opportunity to review the theatrical posters and programmes which prompt memories of performances from our much-loved Purton Amateur Dramatic Society.

It’s all a wonderful chance to see how life was enjoyed on Purton’s high days and holidays in the past, to gain a richer understanding of days gone by, so do make some time to visit! Purton Museum is open from 10-12.30pm on Saturdays from 1st April to the end of October and also on Tuesday 2nd May from 3-6pm. Please note that the museum will be closed on Saturday 6th May.

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