Falconer Museum handed over to community organisation to re-open
The Falconer Museum in Forres is looking forward to a new chapter as the historic institution has been handed over to re-open under a new operating structure, with an official opening to be announced in due course.
Founded in 1871, the museum is named after two Forres born brothers, Hugh and Alexander Falconer. It is home to collections with national and international significance such as archaeology, palaeontology and natural history gathered by Hugh Falconer. Falconer’s links to Charles Darwin and his pioneering work in evolutionary science make the collection unique in Scotland. The museum closed in 2019 but a new Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation (SCIO), The Falconer Museum, was recently formed to manage the museum.
Moray Council will support the initial phase, allowing the museum to gradually reopen through a five-year transition process.
The focus in the first year will involve opening the museum as often as possible, with a build-up of activity over the next five years. The aim is to become fully self-sufficient within five years. The museum will open its doors for a special event on the 28th of November, the same day as the Forres Christmas lights switch on.
Chair of Moray Council’s Education, Children’s and Leisure Services Committee, Forres Cllr Kathleen Robertson, said: “The re-opening of the museum will strengthen the heritage offering in Forres and reinstate an important part of the identity of the town centre. This new operating model will create opportunities for the community and ensure museum collections are enjoyed once again for years to come. Along with my Forres ward colleagues who supported the new SCIO, we are looking forward to seeing the museum flourish under its new management.”
Chairman of The Falconer Museum SCIO, Chris Bridgeford, said; "I am delighted to have arrived at the day to take over the management of the Falconer Museum. I send special thanks to the Forres Councillors for supporting the Falconer Museum. Without their support, this process would have been more complicated.”
Initially, the museum will open only for special occasions. A lot of work will go on behind the scenes supported by freelance Collections Coordinator Helen Avenell. Helen has already begun working with TFM Trustees and with volunteers from the Friends of the Falconer Museum."
The museum is encouraging people to come forward to help them manage the Falconer Museum now that it will be re-opened. People with experience of running a venue, people with administrative, financial, and digital skills are welcome to apply. To register your interest, get in touch with hello@falconermuseum.org.