Amersham Before Plastic is our new exhibition, touring in our Mobile Museum and on display in the museum throughout the winter. Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, made possible by money raised by National Lottery players, and by Amersham Community Board, the project shares how local people shopped, reused, repaired and recycled sustainably in the past.

Amersham Before Plastic

By exploring oral history interviews, reminiscence sessions and our collections, we have researched how local people shopped and consumed before plastic packaging and pre-packaged food was commonplace. Working in partnership with local community group Sustainable Amersham, we draw comparisons between historic habits of growing locally, minimising waste, plastic-free packaging and mending, with contemporary initiatives today.

The mobile museum will be touring local community events, including local markets. We will be sharing tips on responsible recycling and encouraging people to share their opinions on packaging and make a pledge about reducing their use of single use plastic.

Read More

Click on the image

Amersham before plastic - page 1 of PDF
Mid Centurary Shopping - page 2 of PDF
Reduce - page 3 of PDF
Reuse - page 4 of PDF
Repair - page 5 of PDF
Recycle - page 6 of PDF
Amersham after single use plastic - page 7 of PDF

Take up the Challenge

We’re working with local community group Sustainable Amersham to work towards Plastic Free Status for Amersham, which essentially means reducing our use of single-use plastic. Have a look at our suggestions and make a pledge about something you will change today!

Amersham before Plastic - simple ways to reduce plastic use

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Plan Your Visit

Opening hours:

 Wednesday to Sunday 11.30am to 4pm. Also Bank Holiday Mondays.

49 High Street
Old Amersham
Buckinghamshire
HP7 0DP

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01494 723700
[email protected]

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“Enjoyed our visit to this wonderful interactive museum where you are positively encouraged to touch things!”

“Visited Amersham museum yesterday – lovely place, provides many details on the history of the place. Plenty of cute cafes, pubs and shops around also… not difficult to find free parking nearby. ”

“A well-run, informative and interesting small museum on the main street. It’s mostly volunteer-run and they do a great job in keeping it and making you feel welcome…Check out the herb garden too.”

“Enjoyable film and television location guided walk around Amersham hosted by Amersham Museum – here are the Sun Houses on Highover Park and further up the hill is High & Over.”

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