2010 brings a varied calendar of exhibitions and events at Dumfries Museum.

2010 School Holiday Activities

2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity, and we have taken this as the theme of our family workshops.  We will be exploring the huge variety of animals, plants and habitats that exist all over the world in an effort to understand the vital role that biodiversity plays in sustaining life on Earth.

The showcases present three interesting new acquisitions. 

• The Apothecary scales which belonged to Dr William Fraser (1819 – 1863). In December 1846 William Fraser returned from America with the news that ether could prevent pain during operations. He was present when it was used for the first time in Europe at Dumfries and Galloway Infirmary.
• A hoard of 13th and 14th century silver coins. These coins were found in 2007 and 2008 in a field on the outskirts of Dumfries.
• Hat pins and stands from Riddingwood Farm at Kirkmahoe. These stands are made from polished cow hooves.

February School Holiday Activity

Zoolab

Tuesday 16 February
10.00am, 11.00am, 12.00noon, 2.00pm and 3.00pm

Zoolab will deliver a series of hands on, live animal handling shows for children and adults alike. From snakes and spiders to cockroaches and stick insects, you will be introduced to the wonderful world of exotic and strange creatures! 

Each session will last 45 minutes. Booking is required, and spaces are limited. Please reserve one by telephoning Dumfries Museum on 01387 253374. All children should be accompanied by an adult.

Free admission

In 1909 the seeds of Guiding were sown when a group of girls turned up uninvited at a Scout rally at Crystal Palace in London, and persuaded Lord Baden Powell to "do something for the girls". This exhibition explores what that "something" was, and how it changed the lives of many local girls and young women.

An evening of short talks and live music! The usual excellent refreshments will be provided.

Easter School Holiday Activities

With Tom Henry, Nithsdale Ranger, Planning and Environment Services.

Nest Building

Wednesday 7 April
10.30 – 11.30am

Do you think you could build a nest as well as the birds can? Come along and find out how, why and where birds build their nests and then have a go at building your own, and protecting it from predators!

Going Nutty
Friday 9 April
10.30 – 11.30am

Scotland's native Red Squirrel has been in Dumfries for hundreds of years but is now being chased out by American Grey Squirrels. Find out why they can't live together and what you can do to help the Red Squirrel survive.

All workshops are free. Booking is essential, please phone 01387 253374 to reserve a place. All children should be accompanied by an adult. Please wear old clothes – workshops can be messy!

May Bank Holiday – Show Scotland Weekend

Reviresco – A New Role for an Old Tree!

Friday 30 April
Saturday 1 May
Monday 3 May
10.00am – 12.30pm, 2.00 – 4.30pm

Local craftworker, Rodney Holland of Quantum Chainsaw Carving will produce a giant sculpture from an old tree to welcome visitors to the museum. Come along and watch it take shape!

Friday 30 April
10.00am – 12.30pm, 2.00pm – 4.30

Countryside Ranger Tom Henry will set up and demonstrate the traditional way of making legs for chairs and tables, handles for tools, candlesticks and even rolling pins - a pole lathe.

A guided walk with Frances Wilkins.
This guided walk reconstructs the dramatic story of the 1832 Dumfries Cholera Outbreak. Where did it start? How fast did it spread? What were the theories about its origin and cure? Where did the victims live? How did the doctors cope?

The circular tour will start and finish at Dumfries Museum. Easy walking on pavements and footpaths. Booking essential, please telephone Dumfries Museum on 01387 253374

Saturday 8 May – Sunday 27 June

Sir James Matthew Barrie, the celebrated Scottish novelist and playwright, was born on 9th May 1860, 150 years ago.  At the age of 13 he came to live with his brother in Dumfries, going to school at Dumfries Academy. This exhibition looks at Barrie's childhood in the prosperous town of Dumfries during the final quarter of the 19th century.

For further information on any of the exhibitions please contact the museum. If you have any special access requirements please get in touch with the museum in advance of your visit and we will do our best to meet your needs.