Christmas through the Centuries at Museum

Newry and Mourne Museum recently hosted “Christmas through the centuries” for local primary schools.

Children made their way through the Museum’s galleries to see how Christmas was celebrated in days gone by. They met Living History characters from the 16th Century, the Victorian period, and the 1940’s, who are all preparing for Christmas.

They learned that in the 16th Century houses were decorated with evergreens such as Holly and Ivy and how it was thought that these plants would help bring everlasting life and good health. 

Whilst in the Victorian period the origins of the Christmas tree and cards was explored and the children were also treated to a lovely musical interlude.

The children then saw that in the 1940s was Christmas affected by rationing. Santa could not bring many fancy toys because of World War II, and the decorations were very much of the home made variety. 

The trip to the Museum was finished off when the children made their own Christmas decoration which they brought home to hang on their tree or use as presents.

The Living History workshops utilised artefacts from the Museum’s collection which the children were allowed to handle bringing history to life in more ways than one. 

Noreen Cunningham, Museum Curator stated that “the sessions were very lively, interactive and very, very popular, they offered the pupils a chance to see how Christmas was celebrated in the past.” 

If you would like to discover more about the Museum please telephone 028 3031 3178 or email declan.carroll@newryandmourne.gov.uk .