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Overview of collections

The aim of Tenderden Museum is to collect, research, document, preserve, exhibit and interpret material evidence and associated information relating to the history of the geographical area of the Tenderden and District area, excluding the Parish of Woodchurch. The collection of Tenterden Museum substantially relates to the 19th Century social history of the area. There is a collection of numismatic material, containing examples of Kentish hop tokens and Roman as well as British coins. Geological material includes a fossil collection of regional importance. The main feature of the archaeological collections is the materials relating to the medieval shipbuilding at Smallhythe and there are also items illustrating the history of Tenderden in connection with the Cinque Port of Rye. A large collection of 19th century photographs, made into post cards, form a pictorial record of topographic and social interest.

Overview of how collections are displayed

The museum depicts themes of local history such as the role of the Cinque Ports, the importance of the busy seaport of Smallhythe, life in the Victorian period, local potteries, the tannery, the brewery and associated hop-growing industry, the Borough police force and fire brigade, and local buildings & architecture. 14 colourful panels depicting the history of the town from Roman times made by the children of Tenterden in 1974 are also shown in the Tapestry Room.