The Ashburton Museum has come a long way since the Ashburton Historical Society first met on 30 October 1958. Individuals with a mutual interest in this district’s history came together with a common goal: to preserve and display materials that were deemed important to Ashburton’s past. 63 years and several Museum buildings later, the Ashburton... Continue Reading →
An interesting comment on the early records of the Ashburton District is the information these original documents may reveal, or in some cases the paucity of information. The records (2 minute books, 3 incomplete receipt books and a Treasurer’s notebook/cashbook for 1895 - 1948) held by the Ashburton Museum for the Mayfield/Ruapuna Cemetery on Coskeries... Continue Reading →
Rosemary Britten (nee Graham,) prolific Canterbury historian and researcher, passed away on the 8th of December 2020 in Christchurch, leaving behind a captivating legacy of stories of our past.
History is full of small coincidences and connections, which is something the Ashburton Museum team encounters nearly every day.
While conducting some research for a member of the public, Senior Curator Maryann Cowan discovered the exciting legacy of yet another interesting Ashburtonian – that of Mr. James Russell Richardson.
Not only are medicine and doctors important in everyday life, but back when Ashburton was in its infancy, people often took up more than one vocation due to lack of residents – doctors included.
Among the staff at Ashburton Museum are many volunteers who undertake various roles. Some act as receptionists, welcoming and assisting visitors with our popular programs, activities and research enquiries. Others help care for collections. A few transcribe records to provide access to fragile or interesting items that it would otherwise become damaged by use. Transcribing... Continue Reading →
The winter months means trying to find activities that are fun, even in the freezing cold. Ice skating is just one of the many activities that was, and is still, enjoyed by the people of the Ashburton District in winter. As times have progressed and fashions change, so has ice skating fashion! Long coats, fancy... Continue Reading →
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