The Musuem
In 1976 a group of volunteers raised the funds to purchase a home for their growing collection on the variouse items which make up Dartmoor's rich history. An old granary in Okehampton which dates back to 1811 became the ideal place to display the collection and has done ever since. The picturesque cobbled courtyard features granite rails on which the wheels of delivery carts would have run on. It is also believed that the courtyard is a Medieval burgage plot. The granaray still has its working water wheel to the side of the building. The museum opened to the public in 1982 and since this date much has changed. Work has continued to enhance, develop and add to the collections, gallerys and facilities available in order to present and preserve in the best possible way Dartmoor's history. The Dartmoor Life museum features and investigates the lives of the people who have lived and worked on Dartmoor. Starting in the Bronze Age, the museum shows life through the times of the Roman's and Victorian's. Additionally the many industries which have grown out of Dartmoor are explored- farming, mining, blacksmithing, cider pressing have all played their part. Additionally, the military history of Dartmoor is shown.
The museum has much to offer- the John Young Gallery which offers exhibitions, functions and conference facilities, a museum shop, nearby tearooms, handling collections which available to loan to schools and groups.
Most importantly the museum offers the chance to explore Dartmoor's varied and exciting history.
Follow the museum on Twitter - Dartmoor Life Museum @dartmoorlife
or add the museum on Facebook
