Wunderkammern, or cabinets of curiosities, arose in 16 th Century Europe as receptacles for all kinds of wondrous objects and in some ways were the first museums. At Bell House we are going to make our own Cabinet of Curiosities, to help tell the story of Bell House’s past, present and future. Bell House has a thousand stories, so the problem is going to be what to leave out rather than what to include! A group of volunteers are putting together objects, photos and information and are thinking about how best to display everything.
Previously a shoe shelve, now a display of Bell House Cabinet of Curiosity
There’s an obvious place to house our collection. In one of its many past lives, Bell House was a boarding house for around 35 boys and we still have the shelving where they kept their shoes. It’s beside what was their common room (and is now the kitchen) and is perfect, as each niche can display an object that can tell us something about Bell House. Some will be about the people who used to live in the house, like Thomas Wright the paper merchant who built Bell House in 1767. Or the kind of events happening here now, like the making of quilts for babies in King’s neonatal units. Some will illustrate the plans we are making for the future, like the ground source heat pump which will supply green energy.
Once the house is open again (not long now!) visitors will be able to see what the group has been up to. In the meantime, perhaps you have ideas for objects we could display? They need to fit in a space the size of a shoebox. We also have a wish list of items that we need, perhaps you have some that you would be willing to donate? If you think you can help, please email [email protected]