The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle has been awarded £146,000 by the National Lottery Heritage Fund to carry out conservation work on the Silver Swan.
The Swan, which is one of the finest examples of 18th century automata in the world, used to be operated daily. Performances ceased following the covid closures and now conservation and restoration are required to conserve elements of the Swan’s mechanisms, some of which are 250 years old.
Research showed the cost of the full restoration project would have been more than £400,000. The museum decided to focus on the most urgent elements at a cost of £199,142. The lottery money amounts to £146,342 and the museum will be fundraising for the remainder which will include a public crowdfunding campaign before Christmas.
The Bowes Museum’s director of programmes and collections, Vicky Sturrs, said: “It is fantastic that we have received this funding allowing us to bring the Silver Swan back to life. As an automaton, it is fitting we should ensure it continues to operate.
“We have to be mindful that as a delicate, fragile and old machine we must ensure that the work is carried out sympathetically and sustainably.”
Meanwhile, the museum is gearing up for its annual festive market.
The galleries and grounds will come alive with food and gift stalls in the renamed Winter Market which takes place over three days, from Friday, December 15, to Sunday, December 17.
There will be choirs and musical entertainment for visitors to enjoy as they wander around the festively decorated museum, but this year, Santa and his grotto will not be there.
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