Little Baddow History Centre

About the museum

Interest in recording the story of Little Baddow goes back to the early twentieth century. The photographs, maps, documents and pictures gathered over the years became known as the Parish Chest. For many years villagers discussed building a proper home for the collection. The United Reformed Church released land in Chapel Lane and acted as guarantor, and the purpose-built centre was completed in 2004 with money from a local appeal and grants. Its first exhibitions and events took place in February 2005.

The centre preserves and presents the history of the village and answers questions about its houses and families. Volunteers archive new photographs, articles and local information as it arrives, and records are rotated on display. Exhibitions are put on regularly, some organised with the church, and the centre also offers learning resources for schools and other organisations.

Since November 2024 Little Baddow Parish Council has managed the centre, with a committee and an administrator overseeing a team of volunteers. The collection also includes crested and labelled chapel and church teaware and the Washington Foundation collection of pots and drawings by Robert Washington.

Highlights

• The Parish Chest: photographs, maps and records of Little Baddow
• Chapel teaware collection of crested and labelled tea sets
• Washington Foundation pots and drawings
• Topic folders and an online database of documents, objects and photographs

Permanent exhibitions

• The Parish Chest – The parish archive of photographs, papers and records, rotated on display and added to as villagers bring in new material.
• Chapel teaware – Crested and labelled tea sets from local churches and chapels.
• The Washington Foundation – Pots and drawings by Robert Washington and a wood engraving by his father, William Washington.

Founded

2004

Operated by

Little Baddow Parish Council

Admission & discounts

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

No accessibility details are published.

Kids & families

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Getting there & parking

The centre is behind the Cart Lodge in the grounds of the United Reformed Church, on the corner of Chapel Lane.

Amenities & dining

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit