History House Museum celebrates 40 years

The City of Armadale’s History House Museum is celebrating 40 years after opening its doors in April 1976.

Back in 1976 approximately 1000 people attended the museum’s opening officiated by Sir Paul Hasluck, with the festivities for the day including a parade of vintage cars and music provided by the Armadale High School Band.

The museum was founded and operated by the Armadale Kelmscott Historical Society for a number of years prior to the management and extensive collection being handed to the City of Armadale in 2003.

To raise money for the construction of a building to house the museum the Armadale Kelmscott Historical Society launched a campaign and received a generous donation from the Armadale and Kelmscott Apex and Rotary clubs along with money raised by local school children who participated in a walkathon.

At the time, the Armadale-Kelmscott Shire pledged to donate $2 for every dollar raised during the campaign and went on to provide $20,000 towards the building which was designed by Phil Pritchard and built by local builder Gerrit (Harry) Bosveld at a cost of $30,050, it went over budget by just $50.

To this day, the museum continues with the proud traditions of the Armadale Kelmscott Historical Society by displaying objects of significant history from the local district, and hosting temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

Mayor Henry Zelones OAM, JP said the City is committed to preserving and sharing the districts local history.

“Museums provide a unique glimpse into the past lives of others, and the fascinating memorabilia housed in the museum will take visitors on a journey through Armadale’s early years and into the present for many years to come.

“Everyone is welcome to drop by the Museum on Monday April 25 and join in the celebrations and cake cutting at 2pm, especially those who have been involved with the museum over the years.

“Today the museum reaches out to over 2000 school children every year through its education programs as well as hosting special events such as a concerts and school holiday activities, said Mayor Zelones.

History House Museum is located in the Minnawarra Precinct, at the rear of the City of Armadale car park in Jull Street. Contact 9394 5670 for more information.