Dorset County Museum

Dorset County Museum is an independent museum owned and managed by the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society with financial support from Dorset County Council and West Dorset District Council.

Open to anyone with an interest in Dorset’s past to join, the Dorset Natural History and Archaeological Society is an educational charity with over 1800 members. The history of the Society and its Museum can be traced back to the mid 19th century, and its mission today is:

•The advancement of education for the general benefit of the public in the areas of archaeology, the natural sciences, natural history, literature, music, the fine and decorative arts, antiquities and local history relating to the County of Dorset.

•The acquisition, preservation, conservation, exhibition and development (as far as possible) of collections relating to archaeology, the natural sciences, natural history, literature, music, the fine and decorative arts, antiquities and local history relating to the County of Dorset.

To help us achieve this mission the Society has a number of special interest groups, ranging from field surveys of flora and invertebrates to local history and inter-disciplinary research into the Dorset county boundary, and works with a variety of affiliated societies in subjects of common interest.

By becoming a member of the Society, you can help ensure the Museum’s collections are accessible to everyone for generations to come. We also have a varied selection of fascinating volunteering opportunities which enable a wide range of people to become involved in the work of the Museum through research, collections care and conservation work or by helping in our shop and tea room. With so much going on, every member recieves a regular newsletter twice a year to keep them informed about activities in the Society and the Museum.

In addition, as an independent educational charity we rely on our members, visitors and local businesses to support our work financially. You too can help, through individual donations, through the sponsorship of our exhibitions and events, and by remembering the Museum when the time comes to decide upon making a legacy or bequest.

Registered Charity no 1062400