Museum Of English Rural Life

Classification Museum

DescriptionThe Museum of English Rural Life is a national research and information centre for the history of farming, food and the countryside.The Museum of English Rural Life (MERL) was founded by the University of Reading, England in 1951 to record the changing face of farming and the countryside. It houses designated collections of national importance that span the full range of objects, archives, photographs, film and books. The museum's site was originally occupied by a house known as East Thorpe, designed in 1880 by Alfred Waterhouse for Alfred Palmer (of the Reading biscuit manufacturers Huntley & Palmers). Palmer was an important early benefactor of Reading University and in 1911 East Thorpe was extended to become St Andrews Hall, a hall of residence for women attending the University.St Andrews Hall closed in 2001, despite some opposition from current and former members, and the site has now been redeveloped for the use of the museum. The original East Thorpe building has been retained and now forms part of the museum.

Position

The Address6 Redlands Road, , Reading, RG1 5EX

Phone0118 378 8660

DateJul 25, 2006

Contact NameMuseum Of English Rural Life

CategoryEngland > Berkshire
England > Berkshire > Attractions in Reading

Email send email to Museum Of English Rural Life

Local Information

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