Market Drayton, a town with a rich history, is about to embark on an exciting new chapter as it prepares for the first-ever Market Drayton History Day. This event is a celebration of the town’s past, from its bustling industries to the people who have shaped the area over the centuries. Carole Higgins, Chairman of Drayton Civic Society & Museum, shared her thoughts on this milestone event and what it means for the community.
A Day to Celebrate the Past
Carole explains, “This is the first History Day we have held in our town, telling more of the ‘Story of Drayton’ and surrounding area, the changes and developments over time. If it is successful, we’d love to make it an annual event and have more chance to show people what an interesting and surprising town we have.”
The event, which will take place on Friday, 25th April from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm at the Festival Drayton Centre, promises to be a day filled with enriching activities. From talks and guided walks to an impressive photographic display, the event will highlight some of the most fascinating aspects of Market Drayton’s history. Local history enthusiasts will enjoy sessions that cover topics such as the Town Hall Weathervane and the town’s unique Horsehair Weaving Industry, while guided tours will take attendees through historic pubs, breweries, and key sites linked to local scandals and architectural wonders.
A New Chapter for the Museum
One of the most exciting developments for the town’s historical preservation is the partnership with Joules Brewery, which will bring a new purpose-built museum space to Market Drayton. “Drayton Civic Society owns and manages the town Museum. It’s a Registered Charity run entirely by Volunteers and relies on membership fees and donations to keep the museum open,” Carole explained.
In 2023, Joules Brewery offered to relocate the museum to a more prominent and accessible location at their town centre brewery site on Great Hales Street. This will provide the museum with much-needed visibility and accessibility, as well as parking for visitors. The Civic Society is eager to create a modern, vibrant space that not only celebrates the town’s history but also offers a hub for the community. From talks to crafting sessions, family history research to social events, the new museum space will be a gathering point for people of all ages and interests.
“Imagine an attractive, comfortable modern space in the centre of town,” says Carole. “Right now, it is just a vision, but we are working hard to bring it into reality.”
While the move is still in its early stages, the Civic Society is optimistic about the future. Carole shared that they are actively seeking grant funding to fit out the space, as well as support from the local community to help make the dream a reality.
Getting Involved
The Drayton Civic Society has been maintaining the town’s museum for over 20 years, relying on the dedication of its volunteers and members. Now, with the opportunity to move into a new space, the society is looking to expand its reach and involvement in the community. “We’d love to hear your ideas about what you’d like to see in the new space,” Carole encourages. “We are actively looking for new members, and as a registered charity, we also have vacancies for Trustees who would like to help shape the future of the museum.”
For those interested in getting involved, whether by joining the Civic Society or contributing ideas and volunteer hours, there’s no better time to become a part of Market Drayton’s historical journey.
The Future of Market Drayton’s History
Looking ahead, the Drayton Civic Society aims to ensure that Market Drayton’s history continues to be preserved and celebrated for generations to come. As Carole says, “We want to become more outward-focused and forward-looking. The museum has always been a hidden gem in Market Drayton, but with this new opportunity, we want to make it something that everyone in the town can be proud of.”
The Society is also reaching out to schools, local clubs, and businesses to help bring history to life and make it more accessible. By taking the museum to the community with initiatives like the “Museum in a Box,” the Civic Society is working hard to keep Market Drayton’s story alive.
Discover Market Drayton’s History and Heritage
Market Drayton’s history is rich and varied, offering a glimpse into the past that reveals the town’s evolution from its rural and farming roots to the modern day. With the new museum and ongoing community initiatives, the Civic Society hopes to preserve this heritage for future generations.
To learn more about Market Drayton’s history and explore the town’s heritage, visit Make It Market Drayton’s History and Heritage page.
