Yorkshire Museum

Located in the heart of the historic city of York, the Yorkshire Museum stands as a testament to centuries of history, science, and art. Established in 1830, this venerable institution has been captivating visitors with its diverse collections and fascinating exhibits. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of natural sciences, or simply curious about the world, the Yorkshire Museum offers something for everyone.

The History of the Yorkshire Museum

The Yorkshire Museum was founded by the Yorkshire Philosophical Society (YPS) to house their growing geological and archaeological collections. Initially located in Ousegate, York, the museum moved to its current site in 1828, thanks to a royal grant of 10 acres of land formerly belonging to St. Mary's Abbey. Designed by William Wilkins in a striking Greek Revival style, the museum building itself is a Grade I listed structure, officially opening its doors in February 1830.

Over the years, the museum has been a hub of scientific and historical activity. It hosted the inaugural meeting of the British Association for the Advancement of Science in 1831 and narrowly escaped damage during the Baedeker Blitz of 1942. In 1961, the museum and its surrounding gardens were transferred to the citizens of York, and since 2002, it has been managed by the York Museums Trust.

Exploring the Collections

The Yorkshire Museum boasts five permanent collections that cover a wide range of disciplines, including biology, geology, archaeology, numismatics, and astronomy. Each collection offers a unique window into the natural and human history of Yorkshire and beyond.

The biology collection features over 200,000 specimens, with a significant focus on insects. Highlights include specimens of the extinct great auk and the nearly complete skeleton of a moa. The geology collection, with over 112,500 specimens, showcases rocks, minerals, and fossils from various geological periods, providing a glimpse into the Earth's ancient past.

The astronomy collection is primarily housed in the observatory within the museum gardens, where volunteers help visitors explore the wonders of the night sky. The archaeology collection, with close to a million objects, spans from 500,000 BC to the 20th century, featuring artifacts from Roman, Anglo-Scandinavian, and Medieval periods.

Roman York – Meet the People of the Empire

One of the museum's most captivating exhibits is Roman York – Meet the People of the Empire. This gallery focuses on the Roman period in York, known as Eboracum. Visitors can marvel at a statue of the Roman god Mars, explore interactive displays about the lives of Romans in York, and see the final record of the famous lost Ninth Legion. The stone inscription commemorates the legion's rebuilding of Eboracum's legionary fortress wall in 107-108 AD, making it a must-see for history enthusiasts.

Medieval York: Capital of the North

Step back in time to the medieval era with the Medieval York: Capital of the North exhibit. This gallery delves into York's rich medieval history, showcasing artifacts and stories that highlight the city's significance during this period. From intricate jewelry to weapons and household items, the exhibit paints a vivid picture of life in medieval York.

Yorkshire's Jurassic World

For those fascinated by prehistoric life, Yorkshire's Jurassic World is a journey through time to when dinosaurs roamed the region. The exhibit features fossils, reconstructions, and interactive displays that bring the Jurassic period to life. It's an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages.

After the Ice: Yorkshire's Prehistoric People

Explore the lives of Yorkshire's earliest inhabitants in After the Ice: Yorkshire's Prehistoric People. This exhibit covers the period from the end of the last Ice Age to the arrival of the Romans. Discover how these ancient communities adapted to their environment, developed tools, and laid the foundations for future civilizations.

William Smith: The Map That Changed the World

The William Smith: The Map That Changed the World exhibit celebrates the work of William Smith, the father of English geology. His groundbreaking geological map of England, Wales, and parts of Scotland revolutionized the understanding of the Earth's structure. The exhibit showcases Smith's achievements and the impact of his work on the field of geology.

Events and Activities

The Yorkshire Museum is not just about static exhibits; it also hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year. One notable event is the Eboracum Roman Festival, first held in 2016. This annual festival brings Roman history to life with reenactments, lectures, and hands-on activities for all ages.

The museum also participates in the British Portable Antiquities Scheme, hosting Finds Days where members of the public can bring in objects for identification by experts. This initiative helps build a more complete archaeological picture of the past and engages the community in the preservation of history.

A Visit to Remember

Whether you're wandering through the tranquil Museum Gardens, delving into the rich history of Roman and medieval York, or marveling at the wonders of the natural world, a visit to the Yorkshire Museum is an enriching and memorable experience. Its diverse collections and engaging exhibits make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the historic city of York.