Museum fundraiser winds back the clock

 

Historical exhibits telling tales of Mangawhai’s rich and diverse humble beginnings were given flesh and voice recently as the local museum came to life. 

Over 100 visitors attended Mangawhai Museum and Historical Society’s (MMHS) ‘Live night at the Museum’ event on September 1, and appreciated the unique and personal touch in discovering the areas past and predecessors. 

Dressed in attire from past eras, MMHS volunteers amused and engaged adults and children alike with stories about days gone by, including the hard labour of wash day and gum digging, enduring a two-day wait on Mangawhai Wharf to catch a boat to Auckland, enjoying bubbles and looking dapper at classy local parties, and relishing a cup of tea after a tiring train journey from Auckland to enrol young daughters into Hakaru’s finishing school. Children especially were delighted by catching someone ‘inhabiting’ the old outhouse. 

MMHS manager Emma Gray says feedback from both visitors and participating volunteers regarding the well-attended event was extremely favourable. 
         


- WORDS & PHOTOS / JULIA WADE