Helena Thompson Museum
IT is a funny mixture when you walk through the doors of the Helena Thompson museum. On the one hand its is a perfectly preserved Georgian house soaked in the atmosphere of those bygone days, but on the other it is often full of the excited chatter of children learning dozens of activities.
 | In the true spirit of the rich lady who donated the entire house and its beautiful gardens to the townsfolk of Workington, the Helena Thompson house is the base for education days and activity days. |
In total 45 different groups in Workington make use of the Helena Thompson. From the radio amateurs in the loft tuning in around the world to the gossip and chat of the WI and Age Concern group gatherings, there is always a buzz about this grade2 listed Georgian town house.
The house is even a spellbinding wedding ceremony venue for those who want to get betrothed to the Manor Born! All the work of the Workington Heritage Group at the house is re-invested in the charitable business that keeps the Helena Thompson alive and well.
Looking back, give seemed more than take for Helena Thompson, for not only did she donate almost half the costs for a maternity Wing at the then town hospital but also she gave to numerous local charities. Helena was also the town's first lady magistrate handing down justice to the Chavs of her day!
In her will when she died in 1940 Helena left the impressive Georgian mansion Park End to the townsfolk of Workington and this became the Helena Thompson museum.
The team of volunteers led by museum manager Pat Hall also provide Outreach visits to schools and residential homes. Organising these events and other activities is another Pat, Pat Martin.
The museum section of the house is open (and free!) Tuesday to Sundays from 1.30 to 4.30pm.
To find out more Tel. 01900 64040/606165 or send an email to one of the many Pats at htmwhg@hotmail.co.uk
