General Information
Cultural collections description
The Museum of Childhood is part of the Victoria and Albert Museum. The majority of the collection is European, many of the early toys are from Germany which was the centre for the toy industry. Other material from around the world includes early Indian toys donated by Queen Mary and recycled toys donated by Nelson Mandela.
In 2003 a new gallery opened entitled World in the East End, which tells the stories of diverse communities of East London through objects, photographs, audio tapes, short films and interactive games. Through the themes of journeys, celebrations and festivals, rituals and rites of passage, play, sport, leisure and work, it traces the histories and experiences of traditional East Enders as well as the many people who have come and settled in the area from the rest of the United Kingdom, Europe, Asia, Africa and the Caribbean. All material has been collected by and from the many different communities who live in Hackney, Tower Hamlets and Newham – white East End, Jewish, African including from Rwanda, South Africa, Nigeria and Somalia and Caribbean, Turkish, Bangladeshi as well as the Traveller and Gypsy community.
Photographs and interviews of young children also feature and a group of young people were trained in researching objects. This gallery reflects the hidden lives and histories of just some of the individuals of the East End – it is hoped that other individuals and communities will come forward and contribute to this rich local resource.
The Museum will close to the public on Sunday 30 October 2005 for a period of 12 months, while we build a new entrance, improve visitor facilities, refurbish our galleries and expand our learning centre. The Museum will re-open in October 2006.
View detailed collections record >
African: South African
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Asian: Indian
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Asian: Japanese
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Cross-cultural
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North, West & Southern Europe: Travelling Communities
General Information
Brochure or leaflet available with directions to museum
Pre-booking service for groups
Information point provided
Parking for coaches
Disability Access
Parking for disabled available
Toilets for disabled
Wheelchair access to all public areas
Children and Families
Activities for pre-school children
Baby changing facilities
Children's play area
Events and resources for children and families
Gardens open to public
Picnic area
General Education
Academic publications and resources available
Education facilities available
Member of staff available with responsibility for education
Reception and lunch facilities for educational groups
Schools Education
Direct teaching services for schools
Primary school education service available
Facilities
Cafeteria
Facilities for private functions and events
Gardens open to public
Meeting room available
Picnic area
Shop
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