Today, the Charmouth Local History Society (CLHS) has received a National Lottery Heritage Fund grant of £4,500 for an exciting project to increase the exposure of the village’s rich heritage in Charmouth. Made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, the project focuses on upgrading its website and the creation of regular pop-up exhibitions at various points in the village.
Project description
The new website will include an on-line shop, membership signup facilities and blog, better access to the CLHS archives and on-line publications. The pop-up exhibitions will put themed extracts of CLHS archives on display for short periods of time. Four events per year will be planned but more can be organized if they prove to be popular. There will be opportunities for volunteers to assist with the exhibitions.
Historical information
Charmouth has a rich heritage going back to Roman days. Many existing buildings have historical connections and form part of the popular village’s self-guided heritage trail. Royalty, including Catherine of Aragon, Charles II and George III have visited in the past. The village was a favourite of Jane Austen, mentioning the village in her novel ‘Persuasion’ and Mary Anning did much of her geological work on the beach. The project will provide opportunities for local young people to explore the village’s history.
Commenting on the award, Helen Parker, Chair of CLHS said “We are delighted to have received this support thanks to National Lottery players and are confident the project will make residents and visitors (both home and overseas) better aware of Charmouth’s rich heritage.”