The Framework Knitters Museum on Chapel Street is hosting a FREE wartime extravaganza on Bank Holiday Monday 29 May. Called ‘Swing Back to the 1940s’, the event will turn back the clock to the Second World War, with staff and volunteers decked out in best 1940s regalia. Visitors to the event are, of course, also encouraged to dress up!
The museum will even have hairdressers on hand to recreate authentic 1940s hairstyles, including the famous Victory Roll. Other themed activities include swing dancing with revival dance in the Chapel (tuition available for beginners), a traditional street party on Chapel Street, and stalls selling vintage collectibles.
Museum Manager& Curator, Nicola Wood, said: ‘We’re very excited about “Swing Back to the 1940s” as it’s the first event of its kind that the Framework Knitters Museum has hosted. I know from experience that people love wartime events, so I’m hoping lots of families come along to try their hands (and their feet!) at swing dancing and enjoy some delicious homemade cakes. Which I promise won’t be eggless or sugarless, despite the theme – and they won’t be rationed either!’
In fact, visitors will be spoilt for choice when it comes to refreshments. Not only will the museum be selling tea, coffee and cakes from the Tea Room on the main site, but there will also be a selection of beers, wines and bottled soft drinks on sale in the Chapel. These will be provided by the museum’s corporate partner, Nottingham Brewery, who own and run The Frame Breakers pub on the corner of High Street and Kirk Lane.
Drinks provided by the brewery will include their popular draught beer, Frame Breaker, served in 40s-style ‘dimpled’ pint and half pint pots. Originally created in celebration of the museum’s 45th anniversary last year and also available in The Frame Breakers, 20p from each pint sold is donated to the museum by Nottingham Brewery.
Swing Back to the 1940s will take place from 11am to 4pm on Monday 29 May. Entry to the museum will be free for adults and children alike, and the whole site will be open for visitors to enjoy. As well as wartime-themed activities, there will also be framework knitting demonstrations and the chance to knit your own scarf on a vintage Griswold knitting machine. The Textile Emporium will be open for visitors to explore and pick up souvenirs.
Adds Nicola: ‘It’s set to be a fantastic day out for all the family. There really is something for everyone – and plenty to do whatever the weather – so please come and join us for some wartime fun.’
For more information about Swing Back to the 1940s, please call the museum on 0115 984 6914 or email office@frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk.
Faye Stenson