Whitchurch Memories: Randolph Caldecott is focus of museum event

By Whitchurch Herald on May 7, 09 10:50 AM in 2000 onwards

WHITCHURCH Heritage Centre will open from 7-10pm on Friday, May 15, as part of the pan-European Museum at Night Celebration.

The theme will be Whitchurch during the life of Randolph Caldecott.

Caldecott (1846-1886) was a British artist who worked for six years as a bank clerk in Whitchurch before devoting himself fully to art.

He painted many pictures featuring Whitchurch scenes.

St Alkmund's Church is visible in the background of his picture of High Street in the picture book The Great Panjandrum Himself.

Some High Street shops are in the She-Bear picture from the same book. About a mile from the town is Hinton Old Hall, depicted in Caldecott's Collection of Pictures and Songs.

The heritage centre has an excellent display about him, with some of his works, interactive exhibits, and prints for sale.

Admission is free and refreshments will be available.

The Down to Earth gift shop in the yard by the centre will also be open.

Activities on offer will include guided walks around Victorian Whitchurch, Victorian bonnet making (for children), having your silhouette drawn (for a small charge), quizzes with prizes and a Randolph Caldecott talk and display.

For more information, call Whitchurch Heritage Centre on 01948 665 432 or 664 577.

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