Rooted in the past but looking to the future

Jul 4 2008

THE BLACK Country Living Museum currently has more than 40 attractions including an underground mine, Newcomen engine, traditional fairground, glasscutter's shop, cinema, ironmonger's, baker's, sweeetshop and observatory.

The Canal Tunnel Trips through the Dudley Canal Tunnel and Limestone Mines are sensational as we reported here on July 7, 2006 (additional charge applies - telephone 01384 236275 or visit www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk).

But, as much as the Muse-um's success is rooted in the past, it's also looking to the future, too, with a five-year expansion plan costing £10.35 million.

A new replica of the Sedgley Road's Conway Garage will tell the story of the Sunbeam land speed record cars. A 1930s' High Street will almost double the Museum village in size, including a butcher, milliners, wireless shop a nd new Hobbs' Fish and Chip Shop.

The first of the new buildings, The Workers Institute, opens in October.

'Moving the Black Country' will celebrate motorcycles, trams and trolleybuses with improved display, maintenance and restoration facilities.

And, of course, even more costumed staff will help to bring everywhere to life.

The museum has also received a £188,293 award from the Cory Environmental Trust in Britain to help create Folkes's Park, a replica 1930s' style municipal amenity where reenactments of the women chain-makers' strike of 1910 will be held.

* COMING SOON

* A 1920s' Night with Jazz on Saturday, July 12 from 6.30pm-10pm, with The Bourbon Street Players guesting as part of the Birmingham International Jazz Festival.

* On Saturday, September 13, the 2008 Women Chainmakers' Festival will return for its fourth year. Chumbawamba headline.

Tickets: Adults £12.50, children £6.75, seniors £10 for both events.

* Celebrate Bonfire Night without the bangers on Wednesday, November 5 when the canalside village will be illuminated by candle and gas light. Barrel organs and costumed characters will add to the atmosphere. Adults: £10, children £5.50. All tickets must be prebooked. Limited availability - telephone 0121 520 8054.

* Enjoy traditional Christmas Evenings from Thursday to Saturday, December 18-20 and again on Monday, December 22. Tickets £12.50 for adults, £6.75 for children and £10 seniors. Tickets include a free day return ticket, valid till January 31, 2009. Pre-booking again essential.