BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Blandford Town Museum - ECPv6.17.3.1//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-WR-CALNAME:Blandford Town Museum X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Blandford Town Museum REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:Europe/London BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20240331T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20241027T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20250330T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20251026T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20260329T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20261025T010000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:+0000 TZOFFSETTO:+0100 TZNAME:BST DTSTART:20270328T010000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:+0100 TZOFFSETTO:+0000 TZNAME:GMT DTSTART:20271031T010000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260513T210000 DTSTAMP:20260414T102931Z CREATED:20260414T101057Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T102931Z UID:7006-1778698800-1778706000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:People's Emergency Briefing: film and discussion DESCRIPTION:Blandford Museum Civic and Sustainability Group and The Blandford Environmental Trust will present this new film from the National Emergency Briefing – a public information initiative to ensure that the UK is fully briefed on the climate and nature crisis. \nThis 45-minute film\, and the discussion to follow\, will look at the ways in which we can act now to offset the consequences of Global Climate Change. This is a step on the pathway to action: \n \nFor more information about the aims of the National Emergency Briefing\, please visit their website: https://www.nebriefing.org/ \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/peoples-emergency-briefing/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Hall\, The Corn Exchange\, Market Place\, DT11 7AG\, Blandford Forum\, United Kingdom END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260424T210000 DTSTAMP:20260405T072633Z CREATED:20260405T072633Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260405T072633Z UID:6594-1777059000-1777064400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: The history and craft of Rushwork on the River Stour DESCRIPTION:In this illustrated talk\, Anna Lewington will give an overview of the history of rush cutting and rushwork as practised historically on the River Stour in the vicinity of Marnhull. She will also describe the project ‘RushWorks’ she set up in 2006 in order to try and keep the local knowledge and practise of working with rushes alive\, an activity still continued today with an annual rush harvest and workshops run from her home in Sturminster Newton. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nAnna is an ethnobotanist and writer who has been researching and writing about importance of plants to people for many years. Her interest developed as an undergraduate student and led to her study of Amerindian languages and culture at St Andrews university\, and her thesis on the importance of the root crop manioc to the Matsigenka Indians of the Peruvian Amazon. She is the author of two editions of ‘Plants For People’\, a comprehensive study of the ways in which products from plants support our daily lives\, first written at the invitation of the Royal Botanic Gardens\, Kew\, and subsequently described as ‘a complete inspiration to the Eden Project’. She has also co-authored ‘Ancient Trees: Trees that Live for Thousand Years’\, studied the cultural importance of birch trees (‘Birch’ 2018) and written several educational books on rainforests and the importance of plants for children. \nAnna’s interest in the history of rushwork began following involvement with a Kew project to evaluate the commercial importance of plant resources in Britain. Alongside much local research she has taken part in numerous basketry courses\, been inspired by rush cutter and maker Felicity Irons and is a member of the Basketmakers’ Association. \nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-the-history-and-craft-of-rushwork-on-the-river-stour/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260423T210000 DTSTAMP:20260420T100119Z CREATED:20260414T102510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T100119Z UID:7019-1776972600-1776978000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Cancelled: Archaeology Group Lecture DESCRIPTION:Unfortunately our speaker for Thursday evening is unwell and is not able to come to Blandford to give our monthly lecture. He is very sorry and we will reschedule him for the Autumn. \nWe look forward to seeing you next month for our last lecture before the summer. \nThe Museum Archaeology Group lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-the-durrington-anomalies-hiding-in-plain-site/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260327T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260327T210000 DTSTAMP:20260305T093406Z CREATED:20260305T092944Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260305T093406Z UID:6931-1774639800-1774645200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: Blandford's Corn Exchange Renvovation DESCRIPTION:Linda Scott-Giles\, Town Clerk to Blandford Forum Town Council\, will deliver a talk on the Corn Exchange project and the works undertaken to this stunning Grade I listed building managed by the Town Council. Linda will present an overview of the scheme\, outlining the rationale behind the project\, the key objectives\, and the outcomes achieved. The presentation will explain how the works have carefully restored and preserved original architectural features in keeping with the building’s historic significance\, while also improving accessibility to ensure the space can be more widely used and enjoyed by the community. In addition\, it will highlight the measures introduced to enhance environmental performance\, creating a more energy-efficient and sustainable building without compromising its heritage value. \nPlease note that this event will take place in the Town Hall\, on the first floor of the Corn Exchange – a venue befitting the subject of the talk! \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-blandfords-corn-exchange-renvovation/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Hall\, The Corn Exchange\, Market Place\, DT11 7AG\, Blandford Forum\, United Kingdom CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260326T210000 DTSTAMP:20260306T153056Z CREATED:20260306T153056Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T153056Z UID:6958-1774553400-1774558800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Social and genetic transformation in southern England\, 2500 BC DESCRIPTION:In this talk\, Edrys Lupprian of the Blandford Museum Archaeology Group presents a biosocial model arising from her research into the arrival of Beaker-using peoples and metal technology between 2500-2200 BC. \nAround 2500BC Britain moved out of the Stone Age with the appearance of metal technology\, Beaker style pottery and a change in lifeway. Genetic evidence shows that the Late Neolithic lifeway and genome was replaced by that of people carrying Steppe Ancestry. Edrys will explore how and why this social and genetic might have taken place\, using information from Cranborne Chase and Stonehenge. \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-social-and-genetic-transformation-in-southern-england-2500-bc/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260316T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260316T160000 DTSTAMP:20260301T175150Z CREATED:20260127T102211Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T175150Z UID:6811-1773669600-1773676800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Blandford in Stitches" meeting DESCRIPTION:After completing the Stour Valley Sampler\, a huge embroidery telling the story of medieval women on the Stour Valley\, the Museum’s Blandford in Stitches group is now turning its attention to the Great Fire of Blandford in 1731. With the 300th anniversary approaching\, the group are planning a Georgian dress embroidered with scenes of the fire and the rebuilding of Blandford. In this meeting we will be discussing fabrics and thread for Fire Dress\, and looking at patterns for making a toile of the dress. \nFor more information\, please see our recent blog post or contact Elaine Lofthouse on 07779732233. \nParticipation in Museum Groups is open to all members of the Museum. If you would like to be involved\, but are not yet a member\, please visit our Membership page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-in-stitches-meeting/ LOCATION:Museum Annex meeting room\, Bere's Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260302T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260302T160000 DTSTAMP:20260301T175742Z CREATED:20260301T175742Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260301T175742Z UID:6917-1772460000-1772467200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:East Street Research Project meeting DESCRIPTION:Members of the Blandford Museum Research team are documenting the history of East Street\, using information from published records\, local museums and archives as well as personal recollections. As the Project is nearing conclusion\, this meeting will focus on discussion on possible publications and presentations. Please click here for more information about the project. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/east-street-research-project-meeting/ LOCATION:Museum Annex meeting room\, Bere's Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260227T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260227T210000 DTSTAMP:20260217T164827Z CREATED:20260101T142941Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T164827Z UID:6590-1772220600-1772226000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: The Voyages of Molly DESCRIPTION:London\, Liverpool and Bristol are well known for their involvement in the trading of enslaved people\, but many smaller British ports were also engaged in this trade. Some of Dorset’s ports saw slaving voyages\, with one such voyage taking place in 1758 by a ship called Molly sailing from Poole. This voyage lasted for more than half a year\, delivering a number of slaves to a port in America\, and then returning to Britain with a cargo of valuable commodities. Molly made several voyages over the decade of the 1750s and using Lloyd’s Lists for the period it is possible to piece together some of Molly’s journeys. But Molly was just one ship making a handful of voyages out of a total of more than 12\,000 voyages by British flagged ships. What was Molly’s fate\, how was it procured and how did Molly’s voyages fit into the wider “triangular trade?” \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\nThe talk will be given by Steve Richardson\, who has taught Geography in Skipton\, Vancouver\, Lyme Regis\, Bristol and Blandford\, and more recently has been researching Dorset’s maritime heritage. His previous talk: “A Ship\, a Gate\, and a Country Estate” opened a window into some of Dorset’s imperial connections. \nTea and coffee will be available from 7 pm\, the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £8 (£5 for Museum members\, free to Friends and Patrons) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Spring and Autumn 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-the-voyages-of-molly/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260226T210000 DTSTAMP:20260202T113346Z CREATED:20260202T113346Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T113346Z UID:6842-1772134200-1772139600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: In the Shadow of the Church DESCRIPTION:In the summer of 2025\, Context One Heritage & Archaeology excavated over 80 burials a short distance from St Mary’s Church in Iwerne Minster. The remains form part of an extensive Anglo-Saxon cemetery that may have been in use for over 400 years and likely relate to a minster that it is believed to have been founded in the late 7th century. In this talk\, Context One director Richard McConnell presents the initial findings of the excavation and proposes some thoughts on what they might mean. \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-in-the-shadow-of-the-church/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260207T141500 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260207T154500 DTSTAMP:20260201T180518Z CREATED:20260201T180518Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260201T180518Z UID:6830-1770473700-1770479100@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Folklore\, legends & Myths DESCRIPTION:Discover the world of Folklore\, Legends & Myths! This free\, family‑friendly event is organised by Blandford Library in partnership with Blandford Town Museum. \n\n2:45pm: Introduction\n2:30 – 3pm: Folklore\, Legends & Myths talk and slideshow\n3:15 – 3:45pm: Creative crafts\n\nThere will also be snacks and drinks\, a book display\, a library Folklore trail\, and a fun quiz with small prizes. \nChildren under 8 must be accompanied by an adult. \nFor more information\, please email blandfordlibrary@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk or phone 01258 452075. \n \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/folklore-legends-myths/ LOCATION:Blandford Library\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260130T183000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260130T213000 DTSTAMP:20260118T134540Z CREATED:20241206T154811Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260118T134540Z UID:4140-1769797800-1769808600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:New Year Quiz DESCRIPTION:We’re pleased to announce the return of our popular New Year Quiz\, to help raise funds for the Museum and to have some fun in the dark days of winter. \n\nEnter as a whole team (6 people) or individual/couple to be allocated to a team\n£10 per head entry\, including a light supper of sandwiches and cakes\nDrinks will be available to buy\, and there will be a raffle.\n\nDoors open at 6:30\, and the quiz starts at 7:00. \nNumbers will be limited\, so to avoid disappointment you will need to reserve your place(s). Please fill in our on-line form or contact Clara on 07975 797790 (text or WhatsApp) or 01258 450639. Payments in advance\, please\, preferably by BACS transfer to Blandford Forum Museum\, Heritage & Arts Trust\, Sort Code 30-98-97\, Account Number 20009262\, reference -QUIZ\, or call Clara for other payment options. \n*** Note added 18/1/26: there are only a few places left in the quiz now. Please wait until you have received confirmation of your reservation before sending payment. Thank you. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/new-year-quiz/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW ORGANIZER;CN="Blandford Town Museum":MAILTO:contact@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20260122T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20260122T210000 DTSTAMP:20260108T134216Z CREATED:20260108T134216Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T134216Z UID:6778-1769110200-1769115600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Waddon Hill: A Roman Fort in West Dorset DESCRIPTION:Our first lecture of 2026 will be given by Dr Jon Milward\, Bournemouth University’s Archaeology Project Officer. \nWaddon Hill\, west Dorset\, has a Roman fort sited on the Ridgeway. Does it represent a hostile and violent conquest by the Romans? Did it supplant an Iron Age hill fort? What were the military actually doing in the roughly 10 years they occupied it and how does it relate to other near by forts? \n\nThe Archaeology Group presents lectures on a range of facinating archaeological topics by local experts and academics. Everyone is welcome! \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-waddon-hill-a-roman-fort-in-west-dorset/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251213T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251213T150000 DTSTAMP:20251123T110232Z CREATED:20251123T110232Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251123T110232Z UID:6517-1765623600-1765638000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Christmas Craft Day DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for a Christmas craft day. Design and make your own individual wreaths\, cards\, tree decorations etc. \nWe supply the materials\, you have the fun! \nRefreshments available \nEntry is free\, but donations are welcome. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/christmas-craft-day/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251210T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251210T220000 DTSTAMP:20251123T110608Z CREATED:20251123T110608Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251123T110608Z UID:6540-1765395000-1765404000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Social Event DESCRIPTION: URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-social-event/ LOCATION:Stour Inn\, 5 Dorchester Hill\, Blandford St Mary\, DT11 9LH END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251205T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251205T220000 DTSTAMP:20251126T124926Z CREATED:20251121T172637Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251126T124926Z UID:6519-1764957600-1764972000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Yuletide Festival DESCRIPTION:The Museum will once again be open for the Yuletide Festival. This year\, we’ll be making use the gravel area near the garden\, giving us more space for stalls and people. There will be festive hot drinks and sweet or savoury snacks for sale\, and fire pits to warm your hands by! Our decorated Museum will also be open for visitors\, with Christmas Gifts in our shop. \nWe’ll be welcoming the West Gallery Carollers at around 6:45 and 7:45 pm\, and the Bourne Valley Morris Dancers at 7:15 and 8:15 pm. \nFor more information about the Yuletide Festival\, please visit the Blandford Yuletide Festival website. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/yuletide-festival-2025/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251128T210000 DTSTAMP:20251110T181644Z CREATED:20251110T171050Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T181644Z UID:6466-1764358200-1764363600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: Echoes of Christmas Past DESCRIPTION:Join us to kick off the festive season with a look back at the customs and entertainments of Christmasses past in Blandford and around. There will be short talks and readings\, traditional West Gallery carols\, and a display of Christmas-related items and pictures from the museum. \nFestive drinks and light refreshments will be available from 7 pm\, and the talks will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £6 (free to Friends and Patrons of the Museum) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-echos-of-christmas-past/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251127T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251127T210000 DTSTAMP:20251120T161033Z CREATED:20251110T174816Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251120T161033Z UID:6481-1764271800-1764277200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Big Pits and Big Game DESCRIPTION:Professor Josh Pollard from Southampton University will talk about pitfall traps and the hunting of large animals in prehistoric Britain. More details to follow soon… \n\nThe Archaeology Group presents lectures on a range of facinating archaeological topics by local experts and academics. Everyone is welcome! \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-big-pits-and-big-game/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251117T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251117T160000 DTSTAMP:20251116T113844Z CREATED:20251116T113739Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251116T113844Z UID:6510-1763388000-1763395200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Fire Dress Project" launch DESCRIPTION:In their new Community Textile Project\, the “Blandford in Stitches” Group is creating the Fire Dress. In the style worn by an upper-class Englishwoman in the 1730’s\, the dress will be embroidered to depict the impact of the Great Fire on the Blandford townscape. For more information\, please see our recent blog post. \nThis open meeting will introduce the project and decide when and where future meetings will be held. \nParticipation in Museum Groups is open to all members of the Museum. If you would like to be involved\, but are not yet a member\, please visit our Membership page. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/fire-dress-project-launch/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251114T190000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251114T203000 DTSTAMP:20251110T173728Z CREATED:20251110T173214Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251110T173728Z UID:6471-1763146800-1763152200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:An Evening of Music and Poetry DESCRIPTION:A relaxed evening of music and poetry\, featuring some very good friends of the museum. \nC.W. Blackburn\nNic Hosking\nGerald Killingworth\nSam Ryall\nVictoria Starr\nMelanie Ann Vance \nDoors open 6:30\, entry £10 to include one free refreshment; bar available. \nTickets can be bought on line from the Eventbrite website. \nFor more details\, and a full programme of events\, please visit the Blandford Literary Festival website. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/an-evening-of-music-and-poetry/ LOCATION:Blandford Corn Exchange END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251114 DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251116 DTSTAMP:20250917T145325Z CREATED:20250917T144917Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T145325Z UID:5960-1763078400-1763251199@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Blandford Literary Festival Talks DESCRIPTION:The museum is very pleased to host three talks as part of the Blandford Literary Festival 2025. \nFriday 14 November\n3:30-4:30 pm at the Museum:\n“Unearthing Local History for your Writing” by Jane Adams.\nWhether you’re writing fiction or nonfiction\, local history can be a powerful source of inspiration. Entry £6.00 \n5-6 pm in the Corn Exchange:\n“Alfred Stevens: Master of Design” by Teresa Sladen.\nTeresa will be speaking about her extensive study of the life and work of Alfred Stevens\, who was born in Blandford Forum. Entry £8.00 \nSaturday 15 November\n12:30-1:30 pm at the Museum:\n“111 Things to Do in Dorset” by Karen Heaney.\nThink you know Dorset? Think again! Entry £6.00 \nFor more details\, and a full programme of events\, please visit the Blandford Literary Festival website. \nTickets can be bought on line from the Eventbrite website. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/blandford-literary-festival-talks/ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251031T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251031T210000 DTSTAMP:20250927T154756Z CREATED:20250927T154756Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250927T154756Z UID:6049-1761933600-1761944400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Halloween Spooktacular DESCRIPTION:Will there be a Halloween Spooktacular in Angus Wood this year? You BET! \nWith Food\, Drinks\, Wine and Beer (for adults)\, music and an amazingly scary Woodland. \n£2 per person\, or £5 for a family \nChildren must be accompanied by an Adult Ghoul! \nFor more information\, follow us on Facebook: Blandford Environmental Trust \nWE NEED VOLUNTEERS TO HELP KEEP THIS WONDERFUL EVENT GOING!\nIf you can spare a few hours to help with decorating Angus Wood and running the event\, please let us know by ringing 07701090227. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/halloween-spooktacular/ LOCATION:Angus Wood\, St Leonards Avenue\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7PJ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251024T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251024T210000 DTSTAMP:20250924T074823Z CREATED:20250922T084553Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250924T074823Z UID:6042-1761334200-1761339600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Friday Talk: Railways in Blandford DESCRIPTION:In the first Friday talk of our Autumn 2025 season\, we are celebrating the 200th anniversary of the first passenger railway service in the world with audio and video memories of our local railways. There will also be readings of railway poetry. \n\n\n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n\n \n\n \n\n \n \n \n \n \n\n \n\n \n \n\n \n \n \n\n \n\n\nOctober’s talk will not be on the last Friday of the month to avoid clashing with the Hallowe’en Spooktacular event at Angus Wood. \nRefreshments will be available from 7 pm\, and the talk will start at 7.30 pm and finish at around 9 pm. \nAdmission £6 (free to Friends and Patrons of the Museum) \n \nWe have a variety of talks about our history and heritage from a range of expert speakers lined up for Autumn 2025 and Spring 2026. These will take place on Fridays (usually\, but not always\, the last Friday of the month) at the Parish Centre in Blandford. Please visit our Calendar for information about future talks. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/friday-talk-railways-in-blandford/ LOCATION:Blandford Parish Centre\, The Tabernacle\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7DW CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251023T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251023T210000 DTSTAMP:20251013T084428Z CREATED:20250922T083611Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251013T084428Z UID:6039-1761247800-1761253200@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: Ripples in the Gene Pool that made us who are we DESCRIPTION:We are delighted to welcome back the archaeologist and TV presenter Julian Richards for this month’s lecture. \nWhat do we expect when we send off a DNA test that offers to trace our distant ancestry? The reality is that the majority of us are an amazing\, but perhaps un-surprising mixture. In this talk archaeologist Julian Richards will explore the genetic history of the British Isles from hunter gatherers to Huguenots and beyond. And\, alongside the results of genetic studies\, Julian will also explore the evidence for invaders and settlers provided by archaeology. Together they provide fascinating windows into our shared past. \n\nThe Archaeology Group presents lectures on a range of facinating archaeological topics by local experts and academics. Everyone is welcome! \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-ripples-in-the-gene-pool/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T120000 DTSTAMP:20250922T084803Z CREATED:20250408T164146Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T084803Z UID:5542-1760781600-1760788800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Clean Up Blandford! Litter pick DESCRIPTION:Blandford War on Waste/Clean Up Blandford Campaign organise regular litter picks around the town. Everyone is welcome to join in and help to make a difference in the town. \nAll equipment is supplied\, and tea\, coffee and biscuits are available for litter pickers. \nMeet by the Blue Bridge\, Marsh and Ham\, from 10 am to noon. \nPlease visit the Facebook Page for more information. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/clean-up-blandford-litter-pick/ LOCATION:Blue Bridge\, Marsh and Ham\, Blandford Forum END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251011T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251011T120000 DTSTAMP:20251009T150537Z CREATED:20251009T150537Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251009T150537Z UID:6302-1760176800-1760184000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Plant Sale DESCRIPTION:Unfortunately\, a shortage of helpers means that we are unable to hold our usual coffee morning this month. However\, the Garden Club will still be holding their Plant Sale and this is a good opportunity to stock up on interesting plants\, at very reasonable prices. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/plant-sale/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ CATEGORIES:Social END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250927T140000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250927T160000 DTSTAMP:20250830T170214Z CREATED:20250828T174816Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250830T170214Z UID:5964-1758981600-1758988800@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:BFG Talk: "Maple trees\, beautiful and versatile" DESCRIPTION:This talk to the Blandford Forum Gardeners’ Group will be given by Mike Walker. More details to follow later… \nEntrance to the talk is £3\, this includes a coffee or tea and a piece of cake. Everyone is welcome. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/bfg-talk-maple-trees-beautiful-and-versatile/ LOCATION:The Victorian Garden\, Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250926T180000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250926T193000 DTSTAMP:20250922T081733Z CREATED:20250821T143643Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250922T081733Z UID:5933-1758909600-1758915000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:"Last Friday" in the Victorian Garden DESCRIPTION:Come and join us for the last of 2025’s Summer evenings in the Museum’s Victorian Garden. Wine\, beer\, soft drinks and delicious homemade food are available to buy\, and we are able to take cash or card payments. There may also be entertainment from our resident musicians\, Clara and Colin. \nOur food theme for September is “Hot Stuff” – some spicy\, some just warming for a cool autumn evening. As the nights are drawing in\, we will be starting at the slightly earlier time of 6 pm. Wrap up warm for this farewell to Summer! URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/last-friday-in-the-victorian-garden-2/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T193000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250925T210000 DTSTAMP:20250812T135921Z CREATED:20250812T135921Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250812T135921Z UID:5898-1758828600-1758834000@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Archaeology Group Lecture: New Light on the "Dark Ages" in South East Dorset DESCRIPTION:This month’s lecture will be given by Lilian Ladle\, OBE \nRecent work looking at ancient DNA has provided family links and some surprising lineages for the group of 26 people buried at Worth Matravers between 605 and 652 CE. This period is little understood\, and there are very few sites of this date in Dorset. Worth is compared other Post-Roman sites at Ulwell\, Wareham\, Bestwall\, Worgret\, Puddletown and Druce\, illuminating burial rites\, beliefs\, settlement and industry. \n\nThe Archaeology Group presents lectures on a range of facinating archaeological topics by local experts and academics. Everyone is welcome! \nThe lectures take place on the fourth Thursday of the month (usually)\, starting at 7:30. Tea and coffee are available to buy before the talks. \nAdmission to the talks is free for museum members (donations welcome)\, £3 for non-members. \n\nPlease see the Museum Events Calendar for the dates and details of all this year’s talks\, and the Archaeology Group page for more information about our activities. URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/archaeology-group-lecture-new-light-on-the-dark-ages-in-south-east-dorset/ LOCATION:Woodhouse Gardens Pavilion\, The Plocks\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7AA CATEGORIES:Talks END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250920T100000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250920T170000 DTSTAMP:20250917T103336Z CREATED:20250809T071509Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250917T103336Z UID:5771-1758362400-1758387600@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Open Meeting: Progress on the New Build DESCRIPTION:We are delighted to invite you to the upcoming progress meeting regarding the future vision for our museum\, in particular the plans for a new building on for the gravel area between the Museum and the garden. \nAt this open meeting\, we will share our exciting plans for the future with you\, and will very much welcome your questions and feedback. \nThere will be two dedicated presentation slots\, at 11 AM and 2 PM. Our proposed new building plans will be on display in the garden (weather permitting!) from 10 AM to 5 PM\, and refreshments will be available. \n  URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/open-meeting-progress-on-the-new-build/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250906T110000 DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250906T160000 DTSTAMP:20250629T084629Z CREATED:20250628T152155Z LAST-MODIFIED:20250629T084629Z UID:5753-1757156400-1757174400@blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk SUMMARY:Dino Day! Featuring the Iguanodon Restaurant DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Museum for a family-friendly day of dinosaur- and fossil-centred activities. The Museum is delighted to welcome Arts company Emerald Ant to present The Iguanodon Restaurant\, a wonderfully quirky piece of free street theatre. A furious romp through 50 years of ground-breaking scientific discoveries that changed how we see the world\, ‘Iggy’ the Iguanodon provides family fun for Dino lovers of all ages. \nIt’s New Year’s Eve\, 1853\, and in Crystal Palace Park a group of eminent professors and geologists are holding a sumptuous banquet in an unusual venue – inside the concrete cast of an Iguanodon. Fossil-fuelled fun ensues as the dinner guests in the Iguanodon Restaurant\, famous dinosaur hunters William Buckland\, Gideon Mantell\, Mary Anning and Richard Owen wrangle over their amazing fossil finds. \nIs it a bird? A giant fish? An ancient crocodile? They debate questions around extinction and evolution – how come dinosaurs no longer exist? What does the stone beneath our feet tell us about the world? And what’s really in that blancmange? Find out in this highly visual\, funny and peculiar performance. \nThis family-friendly event is suitable for all\, and with BSL interpretation it offers a great opportunity for those who are deaf or hard of hearing to enjoy a piece of theatre to maximum effect. \nPerformance times: 12:30 and 2:30 pm. \nThe Iggy performances will be accompanied on the Dino Day by a drop-in workshop – children (age 4 to 104!) can learn more about fossils\, dinosaurs and of course about their local museum. Roll your sleeves up and get creative\, maybe create a badge to take home. \nLight refreshments will be available; you are welcome to bring a picnic to enjoy in the Museum’s Victorian Garden. \nThere is no charge for admission\, but donations to the museum would be very welcome. Please contact us to reserve your place and avoid disappointment! \n  \n \nFor more information about Emerald Ant\, please visit their website: www.emeraldant.com/ URL:https://blandfordtownmuseum.org.uk/event/dino-day-featuring-the-iguanodon-restaurant/ LOCATION:Blandford Town Museum\, Beres Yard\, Blandford Forum\, DT11 7HQ END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR