We have an extensive collection of objects which reflect the local industries of Cornwall particularly in the areas around Helston and the The Lizard. Our displays cover a range of industries from farming to fishing to mining and are stocked with objects of all shapes and sizes from tin samples (pictured above) to a horse drawn farm wagon and a huge 5 tonne cider press! The museum also features trades and professions historically found in towns and rural areas such as the blacksmith, saddler, cobbler, carpenter, and printer. A highlight not to be missed is the Serpentine Turner’s Workshop which was originally located at Church Cove on the Lizard Peninsula and was fully transplanted to the museum.
Short Films with a Focus on Industry:
- Blacksmiths
- Carts and Carriages
- Farming
- Fishing
- Printing Collection
- Railway
- Serpentine Workshop
- Weights & Measures
Related objects
Cider Mill
Our enormous wooden cider press from the Trelowarren Estate is a well-known feature of Helston Museum, but perhaps not so familiar is this accompanying cider mill, which was used to crush the apples to pulp, using horse power. About 50 kilos of apples were laid on the centre, then the cider-maker would walk behind the
Enormous Wooden ‘arrish’ rake
This enormous wooden rake, well over six feet in width and with 24 peg tines, was used to turn mown hay and redistribute straw, stubble and chaff residues after harvest. It was used by hand rather than being horse-drawn, requiring hard work and great strength from the worker. The local name of ‘arrish’ may have
Chain from Marconi’s Poldhu transmitter mast
These five heavy chain links, each about 8 inches long, played a vital part in the first successful transatlantic radio signal. It was sent by Giulielmo Marconi on December 12th 1901 from Poldhu Wireless Station to a receiving station in Newfoundland, Canada. The links formed part of one of the chains which secured the transmission
‘Best Crimea Set of Blowpipe Apparatus’
The ‘Best Crimea Set of Blowpipe Apparatus’ mineral testing kit was made by the Truro firm of J. T. Letcher. It contained everything needed to enable mining engineers and geologists in the field to test and identify minerals on the spot. Individual minerals have specific characteristics, for example their colour, hardness, transparency and specific gravity.