The Bowes Museum Blog

When an opportunity was offered to volunteer as a ‘Swan Explainer’ at The Bowes Museum, I welcomed the chance to be involved in a special conservation project involving the famous 18^th century Silver Swan automaton.

I first saw the Swan as a young girl on a school visit, when sixpence had to be paid to see the Swan ‘play’. It was positioned in the main entrance hall at that time, and was a magical experience, never to be forgotten. How wonderful, therefore, to be re-united once again, after so many years.

What was particularly rewarding and fascinating, was seeing the ‘deconstructed’ automaton in the hands of the conservation team, the Cumbria Clock Company, who had recently been working on London’s ‘Big Ben’. Following the process of conservation at close hand, when the team were on site, was a privilege. It was during this unusual moment in time of the Silver Swan’s history, when it was also important to convey to visitors why the Swan wasn’t in its usual entirety. As well as providing the historic back story to its creation, it was an opportunity to point out that it was a unique time for them to see this automaton in all its parts.

Visitors were encouraged to share their memories of the Swan, either verbally or written down in a journal, and children through writing or drawings also made their contribution. The whole experience was a delight!

This was a very specific volunteer role, but like most others, it offered a chance to learn new things and to make new friends. Definitely to be recommended!

Written by Marilyn Elm, May 2024