The Story of Tenby Gallery traces the history of the town from the 9th century through to the present day. The refurbished gallery features bilingual interpretive panels, photographs and artefacts from the museum’s collections as well as a Kid’s Corner where children can enjoy doing drawings and quiz sheets.
In the gallery you can learn about Henry Tudor’s legendary escape from the town, discover which Tenby born mathematician invented the equals (=) sign, read about the decline and growth of the town as a resort, uncover Tenby’s exciting involvement in the lead up to the D-Day landings during World War II, learn about the time when pigs roamed the streets and find out exactly what the dramatic building is on St Catherine’s Island. There is also the chance to see how the town has altered since 1586 from a painting by Eric Bradforth and model by John Horne and provides the history of St Mary’s Church, the Civil War and the plague and other fascinating tales from the ebb and flow of Tenby’s fortunes.
Highlights of the gallery include a 19th century Minton Monk’s Rock meat plate, a 19th century Penny Farthing high-wheeled bicycle, Mayoral robes, a chair from the Investiture of the Prince of Wales, a John Speed map of Pembrokeshire form the 17th century, a 19th century long-case clock and a Cap-a-Pie suit of armour.
A recently donated of a Town Crier’s outfit can also be seen in this gallery along with other civic memorabilia can also be seens sthis gallery. The museum is grateful to Tenby Town Council in assisting with the purchase of the costume showcase.
A ten minute film in this gallery gives a fascinating insight into the growth of Tenby as a tourist resort and features moving image, postcards, photographs and reminiscence form the museum’s collection. There is a Youtube link to this film below.
The museum is also grateful to the Federation of Museums and Art Galleries in Wales for financial assistance with the interpretive panels in this gallery.
Work is currently underway in this gallery in creating a new hands on display for children entitled Become A History Detective. Funding for this was provided by the Friends of Tenby Museum and Port of Milford Haven.