The past comes to life at Delapré Abbey on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd June with storytelling sessions, craft activities and living history inspired by a new exhibition.
‘Joan Wake the pioneer: her passion and her legacy’ details the story of one woman’s tireless fight to rescue the county’s archives from destruction and save Delapré Abbey from demolition in the 1950s. Presented by Northamptonshire Record Society, the exhibition highlights Joan Wake’s personal story and her passion for history and the preservation of archival material.
To coincide with the opening week of the exhibition, curious young minds can take part in a variety of creative and engaging activities inspired by the Abbey’s time as the home of the Northamptonshire Record Office when it became a vessel for storytelling through archives.
Living history specialists Past Alive will create a window into 17th century life at the Abbey at they take visitors on an engaging, interactive experience; handle a variety of everyday household items, meet key figures in Delapré’s story, and even try on clothes of the time! The Curator Educator will also be onsite helping you to get crafty as you create your own paper archive.
On Thursday 2nd June, popular storyteller, Preacher, returns to the Abbey for a trip through the past with his Library Time Machine.
Margaret Hawkins, Trustee, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, said: “I’m not surprised that Joan Wake is inspiring so many different events. She was an amazing woman; courageous, determined and well ahead of her time.”
Eleanor Sier, Head of Engagement and Interpretation, Delapré Abbey Preservation Trust, said: “Following the success of our February half term activities, we’re delighted to welcome back Past Alive, The Curator Educator and Preacher the Storyteller for more family fun inspired by the past and Joan Wake’s incredible story. We hope that you can join us!”
The Abbey is open for half term fun on Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd June from 11am until 4pm. All activities are included in the cost of admission with free entry for under 18s. Adults are priced £8.
‘Joan Wake the pioneer: her passion and her legacy’ is open on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays until 30th October. Entry is included in the price of general admission. On Wednesday 22nd June at 6pm, visitors can gain more insight into Wake’s life and her campaign to save the Abbey with a talk by local historian and author, Neil Lyon. Tickets cost £5.
Book your tickets here.
