The Development of the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum

The original idea for the Weald & Downland Open Air Museum was formed in 1965 and the Museum opened to the public in September 1970.  This period is described in the publication 'The Founding Years' written by Kim Leslie who was deeply involved in the creation of the Museum and was its Treasurer for many years.

To read this fascinating document you will need the Adobe Acrobat reader.  The document will take some time to download, 'The Founding Years'

A series of videos, also entitled 'The Founding Years' has also been published as Podcasts  

Through the house magazines you can trace the development of the Museum to the present day. The first was published in 1972.  The magazines dated Autumn 1999 to the present are already available on this website.  Early magazines will be added from time to time.  Click here for the latest availability.