In our first Hidden Collection Series (objects not on display) we look at an amazing collection of models. Peggy Lines, was part of the hugely successful toy manufacturing family 'Lines Bros/Tri-Ang' and later became director of Hamleys, which her family had owned since 1931. Bequeathed to the museum the collection has over 400 models which were gifted to Peggy on her retirement. Important figures from history form a large part of the collection including the following figures who all have a interesting connection to North Devon.
Edward the Elder
Edward the Elder was a Saxon King who reigned from 899-924. He was a successor of the Saxon Kings of Wessex which included his father King Alfred. During the early 10th Century Edward decided, due to constant Viking attacks along the coast and from Lundy Island to fortify the settlement 'Beardastapol' (Barnstaple) with banks and ditches. The original town boundaries can still be seen today, following the route of Bourport Street.
King Canute
Cnut (Canute) the Great was a Danish king who reigned over Denmark, England and Norway during the 11th Century. He reigned as King of England from 1016-1035. During this time the Anglo-Saxon borough of Barnstaple had been given authority to mint coins. Amazingly one of these early silver coins that bears Cnut's portrait still survives today and is on display in the museum.
Sir Richard Grenville
Sir Richard Grenville was a merchant sailor, colonizer and privateer. He was born in Bideford in 1542 and was instrumental in transforming the fishing port into one of the biggest importers of tobacco in the country, His colourful life included a career that saw him fighting in Hungary, becoming High Sheriff of Cornwall, exploring America with his cousin Sir Walter Raleigh and defending Devon and Cornwall against the Spanish Armada in the battle of Flores (1591), in which he lost his life.
Saint Thomas a Beckett
Thomas a Beckett was the Archbishop of Canterbury during the 12th Century. Following serious disagreements with the then King, Henry II, Thomas was murdered by the King's followers on the 29th December 1170. Horrified by his murder both the Catholic Church and Anglican Communion proclaimed him a saint and martyr. A chapel was built in Becket's name exactly where the museum stands today at the end of the Long Bridge. Documents record the existence of the chapel as early as 1312.
Lawrence of Arabia (T.E. Lawrence)
A soldier, archaeologist and writer, Lawrence of Arabia famously led the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire during World War One. He later wrote about his experiences in his major work 'Seven Pillars of Wisdom' (1926). In his book whilst sailing along the Tigris River Lawrence mentions sharing the boat with Devon territorials. Who were 'young, clean, delightful fellows, full of the power of happiness and of making women and children glad. By them one saw vividly how great it was to be their kin, and English...'.
Prince Albert
Albert, Prince Consort was husband to Queen Victoria and father of their nine children. Known throughout his life as a reformer and innovator he supported many good causes. His death in 1861 at 42 years old shocked the Royal Family and the country responded by erecting many memorials to the Prince including the Royal Albert Hall. Located outside the museum on the square, the Albert Clock in Barnstaple was built in 1862, paid for by public subscription and today is a Grade II listed monument.
Royal Coronation CoachThe Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon
Lastly is Queen Elizabeth II's Coronation coach, which doesn't have a Devon connection but we absolutely love the detail. This piece was displayed in Hamley's window during the Coronation in 1953.
Adam Murray, Learning and Access Officer, The Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, Devon, United Kingdom.
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