Willis Museum
Basingstoke

Situated in the heart of Basingstoke, Hampshire, the Willis Museum stands as a beacon of local history and charming architecture. This Grade II listed building, once known as Basingstoke Town Hall, is a treasure trove of stories and artifacts that span from the Upper Cretaceous Age to the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a family looking for an educational day out, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful architecture, the Willis Museum has something for everyone.

The Historical Building

The Willis Museum's home has a storied past that dates back to the 14th century when a Mote Hall stood in Market Place. The current neoclassical building, completed in 1835 and designed by Lewis Wyatt, originally featured an open arcade on the lower level, serving as a corn exchange and market. This open space was later enclosed and repurposed as office space while the upper floors housed the town hall and magistrates' court. Notably, the building was crowned by a modest clock tower, which was dramatically replaced in 1887 by a larger Jubilee Memorial clock tower. Although this grand clock tower was demolished in 1961, the original clock movement, dating back to 1760, still survives and is proudly displayed within the museum.

The building's history as a town hall continued until 1974, even after the council moved its offices to a larger house called Goldings in 1922. Following the Local Government Act of 1972, the town hall became redundant, paving the way for its new life as a museum. Since 1984, the Willis Museum has occupied this historic building, preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of Basingstoke and its surrounding areas.

The Birth of the Museum

The museum's origins are rooted in the passion of local clockmaker George W. Willis, who founded the Basingstoke Museum in 1931. Initially housed in the old Mechanics' Institute building on New Road, the museum was renamed in honor of its founder in 1956. Over the years, the Willis Museum expanded its scope to cover a broad spectrum of local history, from prehistoric times to the modern era.

In 1984, the museum found its permanent home in the former town hall, thanks to funding from visitor donations and grants from the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. Today, the Willis Museum continues to thrive, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past through its diverse exhibits and engaging displays.

Exhibitions and Displays

The Willis Museum boasts an impressive array of exhibits that chronicle the history of Basingstoke and its environs. Among the highlights is the ancient human remains known as Basingstoke Man, providing a tangible connection to the distant past. Another intriguing artifact is what is rumored to be the world's oldest wedding cake, a delightful curiosity that never fails to capture visitors' imaginations.

However, the museum is not without its controversies. In 2014, the removal of medieval coins donated by a local treasure hunter sparked criticism, as did the cutting of specialist job roles in 2018 as part of a broader restructuring of the Hampshire Cultural Trust service. Despite these challenges, the Willis Museum remains a beloved institution, continually adapting and evolving to meet the needs of its visitors.

The Sainsbury Gallery

One of the museum's standout features is the Sainsbury Gallery, added in 2008 with funding from the Linbury Trust, founded by Lord Sainsbury. This versatile space hosts a rotating schedule of temporary exhibitions, ensuring there is always something new and exciting to see. Past exhibitions have included May The Toys Be With You, a nostalgic look at toy culture, Turner and the Sun, showcasing the works of the famous painter, and Alice in Wonderland, a whimsical journey into the world of Lewis Carroll's beloved story.

The Jane Austen Statue

Just outside the museum, visitors are greeted by a life-sized bronze statue of Jane Austen, created by sculptor Adam Roud. Unveiled in 2017 to mark the 200th anniversary of the writer's death, this statue is believed to be the first of Austen in the world. The choice of location is particularly fitting, as Austen spent the first 25 years of her life in nearby Steventon and is thought to have visited the Market Place for shopping and social events.

The statue's unveiling was a grand affair, attended by civic figures and Austen fans, known as Janeites, dressed in Regency costume. Roud's sculpture captures Austen as a daughter and sister, walking through the town, a poignant reminder of her enduring legacy and connection to the area.

In conclusion, the Willis Museum is more than just a repository of artifacts; it is a vibrant cultural hub that celebrates the rich history and heritage of Basingstoke. With its engaging exhibits, beautiful architecture, and dynamic temporary exhibitions, the museum offers a unique and enriching experience for all who visit. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, a trip to the Willis Museum is sure to be a memorable and enlightening adventure.