Pilgrimage to Southburn Archaeological Museum

Members of the Bridlington Augustinian Society and their guests enjoyed their summer outing or “pilgrimage” to the Southburn Archaeological Museum.

The chairman of the museum, Bill Coultard, made everyone very welcome and the enthusiastic volunteers were there to explain about the museum, answer questions raised, and instruct us as we tried the many “hands on” exhibits.

An amazing range of unearthed exhibits are on display, all found locally, stretching from the stone age through to the post medieval period, and even a few more recent items.

Most exhibits are in well lit and labelled display cabinets arranged to a time line. The walls are almost completely covered in explanatory and informative posters and displays. The highlight of this year’s display is a recreation of the Kirkburn Warrior burial, complete with sword.

The “hands on” room is about the same size as the display room. You can weave, knit, play ancient games, build mosaics, grind corn, make chain mail, inspect artefacts using microscopes, and much more. This was playtime for members and it was difficult to drag them away.

The Southburn Archaeological Museum also has occasional public open days. The next is on Saturday 12th September. You can find full details on their web site www.samatsouthburn.com.

After leaving the museum the members made the short drive to the Wolds Village Restaurant for afternoon tea. Between mouthfuls of sandwiches and the naughtiest scones with jam and cream you’ve ever tasted, it was a chance to catch up with friends and look forward to the next season of presentations on local history.