During this time the museum is closed for the winter, the Information Centre will open on Wednesday mornings from 11am-1pm for those who have a passion for crochet, both beginners and experienced crocheters are welcome and costs only £3 a session. Coffee/tea will also be available on Wednesday mornings from 10-12 o’clock hosted by the Methodist group. E-mail info@valiantsoldier.org.uk for further information if you are interested in hiring this space.
When we open the Museum again at the end of March 2024 our new exhibition will be dedicated to local pubs. To make this exhibit truly special, we invite you to share your stories, memories, and anecdotes related to local pubs, your contributions will enrich the exhibition and help preserve the rich tapestry of local pub culture.
Buckfastleigh’s street fair is taking place on Wednesday 6th December when the Valiant will be welcoming the jolly old man himself, Father Christmas. It promises to be a magical experience for all. There’s a £2 entrance fee and a gift for every child.
On Wednesday, 13th December, we’re hosting a Christmas Wreath Making Workshop from 1-3 pm. For £20 per person, you can unleash your creativity and make a beautiful wreath; all materials will be provided, with festive nibbles available. No need to book, although numbers will be limited.
Looking ahead to the new year, we have something special in store. Join us on the 25th of January 2024 to celebrate Burns Night. The pub will be open for an opportunity to revel in the spirit of this Scottish celebration, with entertainment and a wee dram or two.
We are looking for a cleaner for a couple of hours a week starting next year. If you are interested in taking on this vital role, please get in touch with us at 01364 644522 or pop in on a Wednesday morning and speak with Val, who will be happy to provide more details. Three fruit trees have now been planted in the Valiant Garden and in particular a Peter Lock apple tree. The apples, of which, are large and green with a red flush and originates from Buckfastleigh in the early 19th century. A wrought iron gate is planned to be in place soon. Contact us if you would like to help with the garden project or if you would like to join our dedicated team of volunteers, your time and skills can make a world of difference, email us or leave your details at the Information Centre if you can help in any way.
To improve public access to our invaluable archives, we are continuing our fundraising initiative to refurbish a dedicated Interface/Archive Room. This space will serve as a resource for researching the rich history of local houses and family connections. Your support is important in making this a reality, please contact us via email at info@valiantsoldier.org.uk for details on how to donate. Your generosity will play a vital role in creating a welcoming space for the community to explore and celebrate its heritage.
Finally, a happy Christmas and a big thank you to our incredible team of volunteers and to all of those who have supported us through 2023. Here’s to a new year filled with shared experiences and collective achievements!
The History Society
Join us for an interesting evening and find out about a valiant soldier. John Prettyjohn VC was a native of Dean Prior and a Royal Marine, he won the first Victoria Cross in the Crimean War, the highest award for gallantry. There will be a video talk concerning his life at the Valiant Soldier Museum and Information Centre, 80 Fore Street, Buckfastleigh on Friday 15th December at 7pm. Admission is free, but we encourage donations to support these special events. We will be offering you a FREE glass of wine upon your arrival.
Please note the first History Society AGM will be held on Friday 12th January, 2024 at 7pm in the Valiant Soldier. All are welcome.
If you would like to be added to our History Society mailing list for details of future talks, please email: historysocietyvs@gmail.com and leave your details.