‘Times Gone By’ Reminiscence Group

‘Times Gone By’ is a lively monthly Reminiscence Group where everyone can chat and share stories, while also enjoying a cuppa together.

Run in partnership with Wimborne Library, this small group of 10 to 15 people meets at the museum on the last Thursday of every month, except August. The session takes place in the Garden Room between 2pm and 3pm and is open to all. An optional donation of £1.50 per person is suggested.

A different topic is chosen each month. Often, objects and ephemera are provided to stimulate discussions and discover shared memories and experiences. The session usually ends with a quick fun quiz.

For more information and to book a session, please contact Mary on [email protected].

Reminiscence Outreach Sessions

Reminiscence Outreach sessions literally bring the museum to the residents, sparking memories and taking them back to happy environments from the past. Different themes include: ‘It’s a Man’s World’, ‘Childhood’, ‘Wartime’ and ‘Holidays by the Sea’.

Members of our award-winning team of experienced volunteers go into the community, visiting day centres, care homes and seniors clubs as far away as Wareham and St Ives. Around 30 sessions were held in 2024.

The use of original objects, photographs, ephemera and music from the museum’s collections helps stimulate memories, create sensory experiences and foster meaningful connections. From the strong scent of carbolic soap to the feel of a vintage toy, each item has been deliberately selected to evoke a sense of nostalgia and encourage reminiscing.

The museum has started adapting the sessions for those who are blind or visually impaired, using scents and tactile objects. These have received great feedback.

For more information and to book a session, please contact Mary on [email protected].

Testimonial from a Care Home Manager.

“Our wonderful ladies and gents truly enjoyed all the vintage items that you kindly displayed and spoke about.

Also, a massive thank you to how you delivered the session; with compassion and understanding around having cognitive impairments. We’re very much looking forward to your next visit”.

‘Craft and Chat’ Group

Our Craft and Chat sessions are open to everyone and take place on the third Monday of the month. There’s no need to book, just pay £1.50 in the Tea Room on the day. If you love to craft, bring your own project along and work on it in the company of other crafters. It’s an opportunity to make new friends and enjoy a natter. You may even be inspired to try a different craft.

For more information, click here: https://museumofeastdorset.co.uk/project/craftchatafternoon/

Jolly Days at the Museum

In Jolly Good Company exists to help alleviate the physical and mental issues caused by loneliness and isolation. 

This dementia friendly organisation works creatively with all ages to bring friendship, joy and a sense of community to older people living in Dorset.

 A ‘Jolly Day at the Museum’ takes place twice a month in our Garden Room. Lively sessions focus on improving mental and physical health through a range of music, craft and gardening activities for elderly people.

 The emphasis is always on the process rather than the end product. There are no wrong ways to do anything and there are no mistakes or wrong answers. This is very liberating for people with memory loss.

 ‘Jolly Days’ have been described as uplifting, warm and friendly, and give people permission to let go and have fun. The museum’s group is very popular with around 20 people attending each session.

 To book a place or to find out more information, you can either email Sarah at [email protected] or call her on 07884 333117, Monday to Friday, 10am – 5pm.

Jolly Days Photography: Brent Jones