Milton Keynes Museum will celebrate a milestone in its own history on January 23 when it opens its brand new, state-of-the-art gallery showing the area's rich tapestry of history.
The Ancient Gallery will bring the new city's past to life like never before, using the latest technology to stir imaginations, starting with the fossilised remains of an Ichthyosaur.
Discovered during the excavations for Caldecotte Lake the sea creature, now affectionately called Iggy, is 180 million years old. It reminds us that many millions of years before the idea of Milton Keynes was conceived, the area was undersea.
The gallery also houses remnants of much more recent dwellers - including the woolly mammoths and woolly rhinos who once walked the space that has now become the fastest growing city in the country.
Visitors will explore life in the area during the palaeolithic and mesolithic times, and gain a greater understanding of just what those Roman visitors did for us - and how their legacy remains today.
"You'll see how our ancestors lived, worked and played," Museum Director Bill Griffiths promises, "A stunning mosaic discovered at Bancroft is displayed in a roundhouse setting - evocatively taking the visitors back in time, and we have more reason than most to do it - the largest roundhouse in the country was discovered here in MK, at Blue Bridge!
"Of all the community developments that began in the early days of Milton Keynes, the Museum is the oldest and the most successful," Bill said.
"We were started by people in the community for people in the community and we stay true to that today - this is the people's Museum.
"We are thrilled to still be here, and to now be able to tell the history of Milton Keynes in such a vivid way is so exciting.
"At a time when Museums are struggling with drops in revenue and hindered further by significant running costs, we really hope this gallery invigorates and entertains all who come to see it.
"We couldn't be prouder of what we've achieved so far - and we have even more to come with the launch of our New Gallery later this year, which will shine a light on a very modern city," Bill added.
The Ancient Gallery has been made possible with funding from Milton Keynes City Council, and support from the Headley Trust, the Hobson Foundation and a bequest from local resident Robert Excell.
It has taken nearly eight years to deliver this new gallery for Milton Keynes, and it is no coincidence that it will open on the same day as the new city celebrates its 58th birthday.
"We are absolutely delighted to be able to share so many rare and precious artifacts with our visitors," Bill said, "Gain an understanding of The Bell Beaker People, marvel at the Bronze Age ceremonial sword pulled from the River Ouse locally, and explore the so-called Forgers Hoard on display.
"From weights, looms and flints to toys, jewellery and an insight into the Black Death that devastated the area several hundred years ago, we have delivered an outstanding space with exhibits that have genuine appeal for all ages, and one which really brings the history to life.
"I still think we are pioneers who are making the place better for our children. This gallery is all about a shared identity and knowing that we have all come from somewhere else to build our lives here," Bill added, "To know your roots and your heritage is important.
"This gallery provides that knowledge - and every part of it should wow you!"
For more details on the Museum visit https://miltonkeynesmuseum.org.uk/
