The Museum of Oxford is devoted to narrating the rich history of the city and its inhabitants. It features a diverse collection that includes both classical and contemporary art, along with various artefacts and instruments. The museum showcases a fascinating array of archaeological and social history items, spanning from Roman pottery to modern-day marmalade jars.
Established in 1975, the Museum of Oxford was created to provide a place where residents and visitors could learn about the city’s history, distinct from the University of Oxford’s extensive academic collections. The museum focuses on the everyday life of Oxford’s citizens, the development of the city over the centuries, and the relationship between “town and gown“—the interaction between the local community and the university.
Why You Should Visit the Museum of Oxford
The Oxford Museum tells the story of Oxford and its people through these objects and through items donated and loaned to them by people living and working in the City. They are constantly updating their collections so there’s always something new to find! Key exhibits include:
- Medieval Oxford: Displays that explore the city’s early history, including its role as a market town and the establishment of the University of Oxford.
- Victorian Oxford: Exhibits that highlight the city’s development during the 19th century, including its expansion and the influence of the Industrial Revolution.
- Town and Gown: This exhibit focuses on the complex relationship between the university and the local community, including moments of cooperation and conflict, such as the St. Scholastica’s Day riots.
The museum also underwent significant renovations and was reopened in 2021 with updated and expanded exhibits. These changes aimed to make the museum more engaging and accessible to a wider audience, with a focus on interactive and multimedia displays. The updated museum also places a stronger emphasis on the stories of everyday people in Oxford, offering personal narratives and community history alongside the broader historical context.
The Museum of Oxford plays an important role in the community, offering educational programs, workshops, and events for people of all ages. It works closely with local schools, community groups, and historians to ensure that the history of Oxford is preserved and shared. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into specific aspects of the city’s history or celebrate contemporary cultural events. Here are some examples of specific exhibits that have been featured at the museum:
“Explore Oxford” Gallery: This gallery offers a broad overview of Oxford’s history, from its medieval origins to modern times. Artefacts include medieval pottery, historical maps, and everyday items from different periods of the city’s past. It also features interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the development of Oxford’s neighbourhoods and key historical events.
“City Stories” Exhibition: This exhibition showcases personal stories from Oxford residents, reflecting the diverse experiences of people who have lived and worked in the city. It includes photographs, oral histories, and objects donated by the community, such as clothing, tools, and household items that represent everyday life in different eras.
“Victorian Oxford”: This exhibit delves into life in Oxford during the Victorian era, with displays of Victorian-era clothing, household items, and photographs. It highlights the changes in the city during the 19th century, including the impact of the Industrial Revolution and the expansion of the city’s infrastructure.
“The Oxfordshire Museum” Partnership Exhibitions: The Museum of Oxford has collaborated with The Oxfordshire Museum to present exhibits on specific local themes, such as “Oxfordshire at War,” which focused on the impact of World War I and World War II on the city and county. This included uniforms, wartime letters, and posters.
“Crafted in Oxford”: This exhibit celebrated the rich tradition of craftsmanship in Oxford, featuring items like hand-made furniture, pottery, and metalwork. It highlighted the skills of local artisans and the importance of craft industries in the city’s history.
“Alice’s Day” Celebrations: The museum has hosted events and displays related to “Alice’s Day,” celebrating Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Exhibits included Victorian toys, copies of early editions of Carroll’s books, and memorabilia related to the famous story.
“Hidden Histories”: This exhibit focused on uncovering the stories of marginalized communities in Oxford, including the experiences of immigrants, women, and LGBTQ+ individuals. It featured personal artefacts, photographs, and stories that shed light on the lesser-known aspects of Oxford’s history.
“The Story of Oxford’s Town Hall”: This exhibition explored the history of Oxford’s Town Hall itself, displaying architectural plans, photographs from its construction, and items related to its role in city governance. It provided insights into how the building has served the community since its completion in 1897.
Where Is the Museum of Oxford Located?
The Museum of Oxford is easily accessible from the city centre and is located within the historic Oxford Town Hall. Admission is typically free, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists interested in learning more about the rich heritage of Oxford. The museum’s central location also makes it convenient to visit as part of a broader exploration of Oxford’s many attractions.
Website: https://museumofoxford.org/
Address: Oxford Town Hall, St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1BX
Phone: 1865 272 950
