Haverfordwest's History Unfolds Through Objects in it's Museum

Haverfordwest's history unfolds through objects in its museum

Showcasing its rise as a medieval port, administrative hub, and market town, featuring items from the Augustinian Priory (tiles, effigies), Neolithic stones, Roman finds, banking records, local crafts, and military history, all bringing centuries of Welsh life, trade, conflict (like the 1405 siege), and unique county-town status to tangible life.

Local historian Dr. Simon Hancock curates these stories, presenting them as a vivid journey through 40 key artifacts, revealing the town's unique identity, from early settlements to the 20th century.

Here's a glimpse of the types of artifacts (though not a definitive list of 40):

Early & Medieval Life:
Neolithic Standing Stones & Iron Age Slag: Evidence of prehistoric activity near Garn Turne.
Roman Artifacts: Finds from Pembrokeshire highlighting Roman presence.
Medieval Tiles & Effigies: From the rediscovered Augustinian Priory, showing craftsmanship and burials.
French Floor Tiles: Imported luxury goods from the Priory excavations.
Jet Chess Piece: A rare find indicating leisure and trade.
Skeletal Remains: From the Priory, revealing high child mortality and potential battle injuries from the 1405 siege.
Warfare Evidence: A skull with a puncture wound suggesting medieval combat.

Trade & Governance:

Port & Trade Goods: Reflecting Haverfordwest's status as a major Welsh port and market center.
Bank Artifacts: Items related to the historic Haverfordwest Bank.
County Corporate Charters: Documents related to its unique status as a county in its own right (granted by Edward V in 1479).

Social & Cultural Life:

Local Crafts & Furniture: Showcasing local artistry.
Uniforms & Military Items: Reflecting its role as a military base.
Music & Music Makers: Items celebrating local musical heritage.
Cinema Memorabilia: From the Palace Cinema (1913 onwards).

Where to Find Them:

Haverfordwest Town Museum: Houses many of these unique items.
Haverhub Events: Where local historian Dr. Simon Hancock presents on these artifacts.
Archaeological Sites: Priory ruins and recent Bridge Street excavations.