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Armitt Library and Museum Centre(See also Ambleside)
The art collection showcases a little known side of Beatrix Potter-a collection of 400 drawings and painting of fungi and other botanical plants. Other painters of the Lake District are represented in the collection. The archaeology section includes prehistoric and Roman material found in the Ambleside area. A collection of Lake District specimens made by John Ruskin is on display in the geology section.
More than 10,000 books relating to the Lake District and its society encompass early guide books, medieval Cumbria, Lakeland poets, and works by local authors. Those into personal memorabilia will be interested in the museum collection of artifacts belonging to such well known Lake District personalities as John Ruskin and Dorothy Wordsworth. As well, on display are historical items that were in use by everyday people of the area. A collection of Victorian photographs brings history to life. The Armitt Library was founded in 1909 by Mary Armitt for scholars and serious students. As the collections grew a museum aspect was added to the library.
For anyone interested in the history and the literary figures of the area the Armitt Library and Museum is an invaluable resource full of fascinating material. Armitt Library and Museum Photos courtesy of Armitt Library and Julian Thurgood © 1997-2008 by The Cumbria Directory. Reproduction of this work in whole or in part, including images, and reproduction in electronic media, without documented permission from The Cumbria Directory is prohibited. |
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Like its name, the
Armitt combines the functions of a library and museum. Located in Ambleside, it houses the Armitt
Collection, made up of art, archaeology, archives, books, geology, photography, and local
history. It's a resource with much information.
The archives are a source of
invaluable material for the serious student. Representing John Ruskin, Harriet Martineau, and
Charlotte Mason, among others, the collection includes manuscripts, letters, folk songs, records,
and deeds.
The museum shop sells books,
photographs, and prints, and these may also be purchased from the excellent website.