Running the Loughborough Carillon Tower and War Memorial Museum is a labour of love, powered by the dedication of volunteers who are passionate about preserving history. Recently, a significant project required all hands on deck: clearing the ground floor of the museum to make way for future displays.
For years, the ground floor housed cabinets filled with various exhibits, but as with any museum, updates and changes are essential. These cabinets, some of which required six people to lift, no longer met modern specifications. It was decided that they had to go—a task that was more challenging than it first appeared. The idea of offering them to other organisations was explored, but their size and outdated glass meant they found few takers. Nevertheless, the volunteers got creative. The glass panes were repurposed, finding new life as covers for cold frames, and the hinged tops were successfully rehomed.
This project showcased the spirit of teamwork and adaptability among our volunteers. Special thanks go to Karon, Steve, Eric, and Adam for their hard work and efficiency, completing the task in half the estimated time. Their efforts cleared the way for a new chapter: the development of storyboards and displays that will tell compelling tales from the youngest WW1 casualty to the building of the Carillon Tower itself.
Although the museum remains closed for now, projects like these ensure we are ready to reopen with refreshed and engaging exhibits. We’re excited for visitors to eventually see the transformation and explore the newly curated stories that connect the past with the present.
Volunteering at the Carillon Tower isn’t just about keeping doors open; it’s about safeguarding history and making sure it resonates with future generations. If these stories inspire you and you’d like to be part of our team, reach out to learn how you can contribute your skills and passion to this ongoing journey.
