Collections

The museum collection consists of objects, photographs, oral history, books, maps and archive material from Petersfield and the surrounding villages. The policy is to collect material that was made or used in our catchment area. This area is restricted so that we can tell a comprehensive story of Petersfield. The themes of the collections vary greatly ranging from industrial history, social history, agriculture, crafts, and domestic life.

Bedales collection of Historic Costume

In 2007 the museum was given a large collection of historic costume. Dating from 1720, the collection is mainly consists of dresses and accessories, but there are also men's and children's outfits. The majority of this collection is kept in store, but it is available for viewing by appointment.

Objects

We have a growing collection of artefacts with currently 12000 fully catalogued. About 90% of the collection is kept in store. The exhibition changes each year in order for people to see the more of the collection.

Oral history

The museum holds a number of recorded interviews with people in the local area documenting their reminiscences of specific times in their lives.

Maps

The map collection dates back to 1831 and consists of approximately 150 different types. These are all at different scales and show different areas within our region.

Photographs

We have a growing collection of photographs, which show images of the area from the early 20th Century up to the present day.

Archives

We hold documents and records such as census material, local registry information and paperwork relating to specific people or industries. We also hold a collection of newspaper cuttings from local papers consisting of over 17000 entries.

Books

We hold a collection of books which are available for reference only. These relate to Petersfield and the area, and objects in the collection.

All items in the collection are available for viewing Monday to Friday all year round by making an appointment.