We are so looking forward to exhibiting some of our favourite designers and makers at
The American Museum in Britain. The museum is the only one of its kind in the UK and takes visitors through the history of America, from its early settlers to the twentieth century. With its remarkable collection of folk and decorative arts, the Museum shows the diverse and complex nature of American traditions.
It may strike you as odd to have an American museum in Bath. The reason it is in Bath is because the Museums’ founders, Dallas Pratt and John Judkyn, wanted to show the achievements of Americans in the decorative arts and to promote Anglo-American understanding. They had a summer house in the Bath area, so when Claverton Manor came on the market in 1958 the decision was made to transform it into the American Museum in Britain, it officially opened in July 1961. The Selvedge Winter Fair will bring an exclusive selection of around 30 makers offering a host of antique textiles, fashion, home-ware and haberdashery.
Until Sunday 20 December the American Museum in Britain is transformed for the Christmas season. Most of the Period Rooms pre-date the celebration of Christmas as we know it today. The displays, therefore, show winter activities that were popular during each period. The display in every room is changed, items are removed, and other pieces – usually in storage – are put on display. Bright festive colour is brought into these spaces through the placement of costume, textiles, and floral arrangements.
The jewel in the crown of the Christmas displays is the magnificent seventeen foot Nordman Fir tree that dominates the Central Hall. This tree is smothered with over 1,000 lights and bedecked with ornaments that have been handmade by Museum staff members and volunteers. These trinkets – and other handmade decorations that adorn the public spaces of the Museum – are inspired by a theme that changes each year; this year is Winter Traditions.
Whether you’re seeking some special fabric for your own creations, hunting for the perfect present or simply looking for inspiration the Winter Fair is the place to find it.
Join us at our second
Artisan Christmas Fair in Bath on the 12 December.
Entry is free with museum admission.
