The town museum is housed in the attractive Public Rooms in Bodmin’s town centre. Built in 1892 these were on the site of the pre-existing old Friary church. The museum charts the history of the town from prehistoric times through a series of collections and exhibitions.
The oldest artefacts reflect the plethora of ancient sites that exist in this part of Cornwall and include Stone and Bronze Age artefacts plus other items of archaeological interest from Roman times. The roots of Bodmin are explored with religious artefacts from the Augustinian Monastery that was purportedly established by St Petroc, whom the parish church is named after.
There are two themed displays, the first recreates a typical Cornish kitchen and the second a village blacksmith’s. Both of these explore the what life was like anytime up until the mid to late 19th century. The museum also displays artefacts and text relating to both World Wars including the story of Victoria Cross holder private James Finn.
Other collections include agriculture, geology, wildlife, law and order, railways and Victoriana. There is even an 18th century fire engine on show.
