New Exhibition Exploring Childhood Through the Ages Opens at Down County Museum

A brand new exhibition, ‘When We Were Young’, is opening at Down County Museum this Friday, 14 December, exploring the changing nature of childhood in the past and today and how children’s lives have been transformed by changes in welfare, education and the law.

‘When We Were Young’ chronicles the changes that are responsible for improving our schools and homes with sections on children’s toys and games, children in the workforce, young prisoners in the old Gaol of Down, children’s experiences of war, gender roles and much more.  A wide range of objects and documents will be on display including a large selection of toys and games from the Museum’s collection comprising of dolls, action figures, teddy bears and other soft toys, board games and books, computer based toys, wooden toys, train sets and construction toys. Children’s clothing, ranging from Victorian and Edwardian baby clothes up to twentieth century school uniform, will also feature within the exhibition.  

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin said, ‘This exhibition will provide a fascinating insight into how attitudes to childhood have changed over time. The concept of childhood has changed dramatically during the past few centuries, mirroring the advances and changing attitudes of society.

“In the past, childhood was short and children were introduced to the harsh realities of the adult world with little time given to fun and learning. Today, childhood is perceived to be a time of innocence reserved for play, education and imagination. The exhibition is sure to evoke many memories of the toys and games we all had and will provide a great day out for families of all ages, young and old.  I would encourage everyone to come along and enjoy a family day out at the Museum during this holiday season.”

In keeping with the exhibition’s theme and the Christmas holidays, Santa Claus will be visiting the Museum on Saturday 15 December between 10am and 5pm as part of the Christmas Artisan Market.  Santa will be handing out toys and games to anyone who wishes to visit him in his special grotto in the old Gaol.

The Christmas Artisan Market will be in the Museum’s square from 11am to 9pm featuring 30 stalls with plenty of seasonal food and crafts to purchase, as well as free children’s arts and crafts and music.