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November Newsletter 2026 Native American Wetu makeover

A more welcoming space to visitAt the end of October, our Native American Wetu received some much-needed care and attention in preparation for the new season. Thanks to the support of our dedicated volunteers, the interior was thoroughly swept and tidied while the exterior was strengthened by reinforcing the structure's knots.These tasks play a vital role in preserving and protecting the Wetu for future visitors, and we are grateful to everyone who continues to support the upkeep of this valued part of the museum's collection.Watch the clean up processCurrent Exhibition'Black Dust, Bright Stories'

Bassetlaw Museum is inviting people to visit two new exhibitions that celebrate the area’s strong mining history and the communities connected to it.'Black Dust, Bright Stories' brings together artwork, photographs, keepsakes and objects from former miners and from the museum collection, to tell the stories of local mining life.The exhibitions were created in partnership with The Oasis Centre in Kilton to help celebrate the people, places and memories shaped by mining across the district, helping to keep these important stories alive for future generations.Read MoreEventsChristmas at Bassetlaw MuseumStarts from Thursday 26th November

Once again this year, the museum will be beautifully decorated for the Christmas season. Come and explore our rooms and galleries, adorned with festive garlands and twinkling Christmas trees.A special highlight will be Santa’s cosy sitting room. Imagine a parlour filled with the little comforts and handy equipment that he needs before setting off on his Christmas journey.Free entry. Donations are welcome.Please note that the museum will be closed for the festive season. For the most up-to-date opening times, please visit: www.bassetlawmuseum.orgChristmas Around the World Saturday 28th November, 2pm - 3pm

Join us on a journey from Japan to Mexico and explore how Christmas is celebrated in different parts of the world.Discover unusual traditions and learn about various characters associated with the festive season.Free. Cash donations on the day will be gratefully received in support of the museum.Booking essential.Tickets can be booked online www.ticketsource.com/bassetlaw-museumBook hereCrank UpSaturday, 5th December, 10am - 2pm

|  | The much anticipated annual Crank Up is returning this December to Bassetlaw Museum.Step back in time and enjoy a fantastic display of vintage tractors and engines, browse a variety of craft stalls perfect for unique Christmas gifts, and tuck into refreshments throughout the event.Santa will be stopping by from 11am to 12 noon, so be sure to say hello before he begins his journey back to the North Pole.Stay up to date and see the latest updates by following the Bassetlaw Museum Facebook page.Follow Bassetlaw Museum on FacebookDates for your diaryNovemberFriday 13th - Astronomy Evening at Bassetlaw Museum, 6:30pm - 9pm (join the waiting list)Starting from Thursday 26th - Christmas at Bassetlaw MuseumSaturday 28th - Christmas Around The World, 2pm - 3pm (booking essential) DecemberSaturday 5th - Annual Crank Up, 10am - 2pmFrom the collectionWampum Beads

A Wampum bracelet by Hartman Deetz, 2019Our newly refreshed Pilgrim Gallery display invites visitors to discover the art of making wampum. Wampum are traditional purple and white, small cylindrical beads of the Indigenous nations of the North-eastern Woodlands of North America.  They are made from the shells of quahog clams found predominantly on the east coast of the Atlantic Ocean.Wampum beads, and other shapes cut from quahog, are used for jewellery, buttons and other forms of decoration, but their meaning extends beyond that.Traditionally, strands of wampum beads were used in political meetings, signifying a person’s degree of authority when appearing at a political gathering such as a grand council. This is still true today. When a string of wampum is held in a person’s hand, they are said to be speaking truthfully.Most importantly, wampum were woven into intricate belts. These were traditionally carried, held, or draped over the shoulder as diplomatic and ceremonial records. These belts recorded treaties and important events, and symbolised commitments and agreements.Wampum belts are still made today. Traditional designs are being recreated, while new designs are produced to mark recent important events.Find out more about the art of making Wampum

Contact usBassetlaw Museum, Amcott House, 40 Grove Street, Retford DN22 6LD01777 713749 bassetlaw.museum@bassetlaw.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/bassetlawmuseumInstagram: @bassetlawmuseumOpening times: The Museum is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10am -  4:45pm. Last entries 4:30pmOpen Monday to Saturday during Nottinghamshire School Holidays.School holiday and term dates | Nottinghamshire County CouncilAdmission is FREE