Derby Museums launches Adopt an Object scheme in time for Christmas

Charles Hanson Adopt an Object – 2

Image: Charles Hanson holding a paperweight made from Blue John fluorite at the Museum of Making

People are being given the chance to adopt a piece of history from Derby Museums as part of a new Adopt an Object scheme being launched today to support the funding of family activities in the museums.

Adopt an Object gives people the chance to have their own special link with an object of the past.  Over 30 objects can be adopted, which are on display on the staircase wall of the Civic Hall in the Museum of Making.

Derby Museums’ Ambassador, TV’s Charles Hanson, has become one of the first people to Adopt an Object, choosing the Derbyshire Blue John fluorite paperweight with a gilded 1826 shilling.

Charles said:

“From object creation to provenance, the journey for a work of art goes on and I am delighted to Adopt an Object in the Museum of Making. The museum captures the essence of Derby and our passion for being hands on with history and I am proud to be a small part of it.”

Also on the list is an unusual salt glaze stoneware puzzle jug, which was designed to present the drinker with a puzzle as to how to pour the contents without spilling anything. Other items include everything from a flat iron to a Derby porcelain poodle.

Each is available to adopt across different price ranges, starting at £30, and can be adopted by a number of different people. All adopters receive a digital image of their object, digital certificate, and recognition of the adoption featured alongside the object on the Derby Museums from Home microsite.

Sally Hawley, Head of Collections at Derby Museums, said:

“Support from adoptees will help us to keep making history and inspire the makers of the future. Whether you’re adopting an object for yourself, as a gift or tribute to a loved one, this is a fantastic opportunity to receive something unique in return for your support.”

“Adopting an object is the perfect gift for the history-lovers in your life. Whether you are looking for an unusual birthday or Christmas present or a literally historic gift there should be something to suit most tastes. Adopters will be supporting local heritage and helping Derby Museums to care for the unique artefacts in our collection.”

For more details on how to Adopt an Object and to browse the items available, visit the Derby Museums from Home website here or call 01332 641901.