The Cottage

The home of John Cave, boot and shoe manufacturer, and his family

In 1882 when it was to be sold by auction it was described as :- a family residence, known as Rushden Cottage, together with Large Garden and Stables, containing 6,440 square yards (or thereabouts); now in the occupation of Campbell Praed, Esq.

The front wall surrounding the Cottage was demolished in 1910 when the High Street was widened at the bottom of Queen Street

 

The Co-op Chemist

They used the rooms above the shop for their meetings

Rushden photographer Vic Childs is kneeling on the front row

Rushden Museum

Rushden Museum, located in the heart of Rushden, England, offers a fascinating glimpse into the town’s rich history and heritage. Established in 1999 by local historians, the museum showcases a variety of exhibits that highlight Rushden’s past, from its industrial roots to its cultural milestones.

Wellingborough Road

  • View from the Church tower before the Avenues were built

Robinson's Garage

High Street South showing Robinson’s garage

Welcome to Rushden Museum’s Website.

On this site you will be able to find information about our Current Exhibitions and events along with slices of the towns history.

The project to open a museum was started in 1999. Local historians, lead by Susan Hollowell, were concerned that with the rapid growth of the town, Rushden had nowhere to preserve and show off it’s history. Over the years various sites were looked at, all however proved to be unsuitable or out of reach due to funds. Undeterred, funds were still being raised under the banner of Friends of Rushden Museum, (F.O.R.M). The loss of their leader Susan left the group static for a time until in November 2005 a new constitution and a new group of trustees took up the reins of F.O.R.M to steer it where it is today.

Latest Articles

Coronation Celebrations in Rushden in May 1937

A description of the Coronation Celebrations in Rushden in May 1937

Rushden’s Parish Church Clock

When the Rev. J. T. Barker came to Rushden in 1868 he set about restoring the parish church and a new clock was installed.

Rushden Board Schools Penny Bank

The opening and rules of the Rushden Board Schools Penny Bank

Rushden Station

A brief history of Rushden Station by our work-experience student

William Desborough 1864 – 1937

William Desborough was born in Wymington in 1864 and by 1881 was living in Succoth Place, Rushden

Francis George Gasden Shorley 1883 – 1917

Francis George Gasden Shorley born 22 January 1883 and was killed in action 27 November 1917.

Opening Times

May – October

Saturdays & Sundays

2pm – 4pm

Other times by appointment only

Address

Rushden Museum
The Old Stable Block
Hall Avenue
Rushden
Northamptonshire
NN10 9EP

 

Latest News

Party in the Park 2026

Rushden’s Party in the Park was held in Hall Park on Saturday 11 July 2026

A Visit to Rushden’s Past – a talk at Rushden Library

The talk, which is entitled “A Visit to Rushden’s Past,” is based on a visitor arriving in Rushden by train and walking through the town.

Talk for the Rushden N.A.B. Social Group

On Tuesday 9 June 2026 we gave a talk to the social Group of the Rushden Branch of the N.A.B.

News for April 2026 from Rushden Museum

Most of April was taken up with working on the exhibition.

The Opening of Rushden Museum’s 2026 Exhibition “Raise a Glass to My Old China”

– Rushden Museum’s 2026 Exhibition “Raise a Glass to My Old China” was opened on Saturday 2 May by the mayor, Gill Mercer

Friends of Rushden Museum Annual General Meeting

The Annual General Meeting of the Friends of Rushden Museum was held at Rushden Hall on 22 April 2026

Visit us today!

Visitors can explore a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the community’s evolution over the years. The museum is open on weekends, providing an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply curious about the local area, Rushden Museum is a must-visit destination

Membership

By becoming a ‘Friend’ of the Rushden Museum you’ll get invited to official events and more….

What's on

Find out what events are happening in and around Rushden Museum and Rushden town.

Contacting us

There are various ways to contact us, they can be found here, or visits at Rushden Museum.

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