Many of you will have seen the article in the Huddersfield Examiner about the proposed cuts in Kirklees budget in the year 2014/15. It was stated that nothing was ‘sacred’ and every service would have to make cuts, so just in case there were was threat to the Tolson Museum I responded. Below is my published reply.
I have just returned from holiday and now read the Examiner reports of the possible axing of museums and parks by Kirklees to meet a yet unspecified imposed budget reduction and, I quote, “Tolson Museum was an obvious target”.
I must declare a major interest as we have recently formed the Friends of Tolson Memorial Museum and Ravensknowle Park. There are a large number of people who are most concerned to ensure that Tolson Memorial Museum is there to celebrate the heritage of Huddersfield for the years to come. It is just the wrong time even to hint that this fine museum could close. As a nation, we are on the verge of remembering the many millions of people who died in the First World War. Here is a commemorative example of that war. It was given by Mr Tolson to the people of Huddersfield in memory of his two nephews both killed in that dreadful conflict.
The Friends have drawn up plans and are raising money for a heritage memorial garden, adjacent to the museum, to commemorate the Huddersfield men and women who died serving their town and country in the many conflicts in the years since the Second World War. They have already provided funds to improve rooms in the museum and have a programme of events in the coming year. The interest so many people have already shown in the Friends and their programme demonstrates the need for people of Huddersfield to have access for a place to view their history.
Even to hint that his fine organisation could close through budget cuts leaves me with a deep anger shared by the many people who have already contacted me.
Tolson Memorial museum must not be allowed to close. It is a keystone in the history of our town, Huddersfield.
Ann Denham Chair of the Friends of Tolson Memorial Museum and Ravensknowle Park
What next?
Many of you have already shown your support for the Friends of Tolson and Ravensknowle by joining the Friends. What would be great would be if you could email me or write to me a few lines on ‘Why the Tolson Museum is important to you’.
We plan to launch an on line facility for you to demonstrate your support shortly.
If you have not yet joined us, the cost is just £2.
Tolson Museum Memorial Heritage Garden Proposal
You are invited to come along on Sunday 15th September 2pm – 4pm to the Tolson Museum to a meeting of ‘Friends’ and Officers to view the plans, add your comments and see the newly refurbished rooms in the Museum. We have prepared a bid for funding. We have already received very generous financial support but we still need to raise more to support the bid. This is a very exciting project and will bring a new dimension to the enjoyment of the museum and the park.
Wednesday 9th October 2pm- 4pm. Come and join us for ‘cup of tea and cake’ in the Museum. This is an opportunity to be in at the start of what is hoped to be a regular monthly get together in the Museum. The plans will also be on view.
Sunday 17th November 2pm- 4pm. Victorian Christmas event. Hammonds Junior Brass Band will entertain us and there will be stalls and refreshments. You will be served in truly Victorian fashion.
Stop Press
Support for Heritage Weekend is being celebrated a week early by the Friends!
Sunday 8th September 12am – 2pm. A circular walk from Tolson to the Victoria Tower on Castle Hill, an opportunity to go up the Tower, and a return walk back to the Tolson. Do join us, it is a lovely walk.
About Friends of Tolson & Ravensknowle
The Committee of Friends of Tolson & Ravensknowle meet once a month to plan the programme for the local community and support the work of the Museum. We look after the Heritage Memorial Garden. We would welcome any one who is interested in working with us.
For more information please contact Volunteer Ann, Friends of Tolson & Ravensknowle. m: 07803159506 email: secretary@friendsoftolson.org