Did you know that Harpenden has a new museum? Located downstairs in the Eric Morecambe Centre, Harpenden History Museum houses collections of artefacts, documents, photographs and artworks built up over many years, reflecting Harpenden’s history from early settlement to commuter town. Displays will be changed frequently and occasional special exhibitions will be held.

The museum opened without fanfare in December 2023 and, staffed by volunteers, is open every Saturday 11am - 3pm, and some Tuesdays and Thursdays (see the website for exact opening dates/times).  It is free to enter, though donations to support its upkeep are always welcome.

The museum was recently visited by the Mayor of St Albans, Councillor Anthony Rowlands (pictured above with society chair Roger Butterworth and Harpenden Town Mayor Councillor Fiona Gaskill) who commented: "The thoughtfully arranged displays provide a vivid insight into Harpenden's fascinating history and will appeal to young and old and all those in between."

To mark the official opening of the museum, and 50 years of the Harpenden History Society, the society will be holding a Local History Day in the Eric Morecambe Centre on 20th April, 11am - 3pm.  Using rarely seen maps and images from its archive, the History Society will track the history of the area from pre-Roman times to the present.  From Cassivellaunus (the tribal leader believed to have fought the Romans at Wheathampstead) to steam train, to the Rothamsted Ramblers Ladies Hockey Club (pictured below), you will see the town’s development from rural village to thriving town. The exhibition will be accompanied by short talks on key features of Harpenden’s past, exhibits by other local societies, and a special children's competition.

All images provided by The Harpenden History Society.