Dorset Provincial Museum & Library

The Branksome Masonic Hall building also house's the Dorset Provincial Museum and Library,

In the July of 1917 consideration was given by the Dorset Masters Lodge to adopt a scheme for a Central Library and Museum for Dorset, a scheme already established in many other Provinces as it was noted that within many Lodges throughout the Province, there was a rich assortment of Masonic relics and items of interest.
Finally a suitable home was found to accommodate the exhibits that had previously been accumulated and the building that was acquired had the history of being originally built as a chapel, subsequently used as a cinema for silent films and then was probably made obsolete when talking films required greater facilities and in 1927, it opened its doors to the brethren.

With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, it was decided to pack away and store the exhibits until war ended but owing to circumstances over which Province had no control, the Museum was not re-established until September 1948 when the R.W.Prov.Grand Master, the Rt.Hon. the Earl of Shaftesbury appointed W.Bro.Boone PPGReg. and W.Bro.H.E.Wallington PPGReg, as joint Curators.

It was not until June of 1950, that the task of re-numbering and placing of exhibits was almost complete and currently with over two thousand items and exhibits, it provides a valuable opportunity for acquiring Masonic knowledge that may not otherwise be available.

Those familiar with the Museum will be aware that works are being carried out by the volunteers to enhance the presentation of the vast assortment of artifacts on display but it is a slow process as the Museum has hardly altered for the last 25 years and the overall appearance was looking tired.
By re-arranging the position of two display cabinets and thinning out the contents, there is a greater appreciation upon entering the room of the wealth of interesting items on display as here.

The Museum and Library is self-funding and is acknowledged to be one of the finest outside London.  The museum is supported through the sale of regalia for all Degrees and Masonic Orders, Ritual books, Minute books, in fact all your needs. So contact us first for a specific quotation for your requirements.

​The museum is open every TUESDAY and FRIDAY morning from 09.30am until 12.00pm.

​The Curators will be pleased to conduct parties around the Museum.  Brethren and their Ladies are very welcome.  Meals can be arranged for a minimum number of £30.    You can even make up a party and visit your museum.

Contact us on: +44 (0)1202 736323

Email: sales@dpmuseum.plus.com

Send mail to web@branksomemasonichall.com with questions or comments about this web site.
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Last modified: 03/23/20