ABOUT US
Penmaenmawr Museum is an independent community museum and registered charity (no. 1148984), managed by volunteers. As well as taking care of the museum and coffee shop, we look after an archive collection of artefacts, documents and photographs; organise an annual lecture series; host community events; lead a programme of heritage walks; support learning placements at the museum; and we are involved in partnership projects focusing on the preservation of local heritage.
How did it all start?
Penmaenmawr Museum was founded in 2002. It was originally located in 4 New York Cottages, on the outskirts of the town. The responsibility for the museum passed to Penmaenmawr Historical Society some years later.
By 2016 Penmaenmawr Museum had amassed a collection of over 1000 items, including a large photograph and document archive and artefacts of local interest. By this time, the museum had outgrown the little quarryman’s cottage and most of its collection had to be stored off-site. After a lot of research and consultation, the decision was made to relocate the museum to the former post office that had recently become available in the centre of Penmaenmawr.
Shortly after relocating, the museum secured a National Lottery Heritage Fund (NLHF) grant to develop our plans for the sustainability of the museum and its services. We went on to secure a delivery phase grant which enabled trustees to refurbish the building, commission new displays, safeguard our collection and open a coffee shop to help us raise funds.
Thanks to the hard work of our volunteers and the contribution of lottery players and NLHF, Penmaenmawr Museum has now been transformed into an accessible, family-friendly venue. We hope to safeguard, record and interpret the rich history of Penmaenmawr for future generations of residents and visitors to the town.
Our mission
Penmaenmawr Museum exists to promote, preserve, and celebrate the heritage of Penmaenmawr and its surrounding areas. The Museum conserves and interprets evidence of Penmaenmawr’s past for the educational, social and economic benefit of our wider communities. Penmaenmawr Museum works in partnership with organisations to foster a dynamic and innovative approach to the conservation, education and enjoyment of Penmaenmawr’s past.
How is Penmaenmawr Museum managed and funded?
Penmaenmawr Museum costs around £8000 per annum to run. These costs include insurance, utility bills, and maintenance contracts for fire safety, alarms, lift and hygiene services.
The museum occasionally attracts grants for training, exhibitions and events. We also generate funds through the coffee shop and sale of books and products.
However, most of our funding is generated through our membership programme and the generosity of our visitors who donate money when they visit the museum.
Thank you to all those who support us, we couldn’t do this without you.
Annual Accounts
Penmaenmawr Historical Society & Museum Annual Accounts 2016/17
Penmaenmawr Historical Society & Museum Annual Accounts 2017/18
Penmaenmawr Historical Society & Museum Annual Accounts 2018/19
Penmaenmawr Historical Society & Museum Annual Accounts 2019/20
