The Big Secret of Swindon - need your help
Wednesday Jun 13, 2007
Some unkind people will tell you that the best thing about Swindon is its view from your rear-view mirror as you join the M4.... But not many know about the hidden treasure trove at a nearby disused airfield - one that any of us with a hint of interest in Technology, Science or Educataion need to be vigorously supporting (-in the autumn you will get a chance)
Of course, we all know about the Science Museum in Kensington. This, in turn, is part of the UK's NMSI family of museums, that includes the National Rail Museum and the National Media Museum. But the less famous member is the Swindon Science Museum.
Before you scoff: Swindon holds 92% of the Science Museum collection; yes you read that right - Kensington only has 8% of the collection. Wroughton airfield near Swindon has hangar after hangar stuffed full of, well, stuff. This includes a Lockheed Constellation once owned by the Rolling Stones, a nuclear missile or two, Blue Peter inshore lifeboat, the first hovercraft, oh and - computers. Rows and rows of them- from Leo, through ICL 1900's to Microvaxes & Apollos (I haven't spotted a Sparcstation yet).
Today, public access is limited (and a bit random). A project called "Inspired" has been launched to develop the site and open it up for better access - not as a "normal" museum, but more a place of education, inspiration and fun - a new type of museum that will "deliver serious fun for everyone by bringing to life the human
stories and moments of genius behind 200,000 iconic objects which have
been previously inaccessible to the public".
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