Chester Grosvenor Museum unveils display of city treasures from the past and present

Dec 22 2011 Chester Chronicle

AN EXHIBITION at Chester’s Grosvenor Museum focuses on treasured possessions from the city’s past and present.

It looks at why people treasure particular belongings whether they are worth a lot of money or have sentimental value.

As part of the exhibition, the museum worked with pupils of Upton Health Church of England Primary School and considered why people keep what they consider treasures and what we can learn about the past from them.

On display is a handbag especially made for the 1953 coronation, Georgian silk slippers, military medals, items from Viking graves, a Roman ring and a wedding dress worn by a bride in 1858 for her wedding at St John’s Church.

There is also a 115-year-old christening gown which had been worn by 37 children over five generations and a pair of first shoes belonging to a little boy born on the Rows in the 1930s.

And there are also watercolours showing treasures from Chester – including the cathedral and walls – which are not normally on display.

There will be Georgian–style costumes for children to try on.

Cllr Stuart Parker, executive member for culture and recreation, loaned to the exhibition a bear money box and a letter from Winston Churchill.

“These two items came from both my grandparents and are very dear to me,” he said.

“My nana was a devoted fan of Winston Churchill, and sent him a money postal order for his birthday and Christmas each year.

“The handwritten note was sent to her by Winston himself, expressing his gratitude for her kindness.”

The exhibition at the museum will be on display until Sunday, January 8.