21 hours ago
Four-year museum project nearing an end
AS well as the lighter, longer and sunnier days, June is home to GRTSB (Gypsy, Roma, Traveller, Showfolk and Boaters) History Month.
GRTSB History Month serves to raise awareness and challenge prejudice, fostering a more inclusive society by highlighting the rich heritage of these often-marginalised groups.
The month is a way to amplify their voices and ensure their stories are recognised and celebrated.
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For members of the Travelling communities, it is also an opportunity to reflect upon their identities and what their cultural heritage means to them and the values they hold, especially in modern society with the challenges this presents.
This month is a celebratory yet emotional month for Museums Worcestershire's Vardo project officer as the four-year Vardo Project funded by the John Ellerman Foundation comes to an end.
Before the current project officer hangs up their boots, however, there is opportunity to share a recent acquisition to the Worcestershire County collection.
A pair of Brompton brogue boots for ladies have arrived, almost new and barely worn as one of the last the factory ever made and purchased some 30 years ago by a Romani woman from the area.
This brand was a popular boot as the style was deemed 'all-purpose' for travelling folk. The design suits the requirement to be practical, living a traveller's way of life — tending to animals, livestock, horses and families on the open road, on horseback and in and out of wagons and carts.
Practical boots that could be worn under even the 'best' skirts for an outing into town or to a show.
The boot is representative of a cultural heritage and identity not widely known about.
It is robust, strong, resilient and versatile yet elusive.
This month and throughout the autumn journeys will be made to traditional horse fairs and shows acknowledging the traditions, the hawking, the celebration, the rejoice at reuniting with friends and family at favoured, sacred stopping places or Atchin Tans that may be lost to communities now.
The versatility and resilience of a community ever-present and, unlike this specific type of boot, here to stay.
Discover the history of Worcestershire by visiting The Commandery, Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum and Worcestershire County Museum at Hartlebury Castle.
Find out more and plan your visit at
