Historical moments represented
The flags span a wide range of historical moments – from the Jurassic period and the Domesday Book to the life of William Penn, the arrival of the Metropolitan Railway, and even a nod to Harry Potter, whose filming locations touch the district’s cultural memory.
44 local needleworkers participated, each bringing their own perspective and craftsmanship to the project. The companion booklet, researched and written by a separate group of volunteers, adds depth to the visual display and serves as a lasting educational resource.
The exhibition opened in mid-2024 at Basing House in Rickmansworth and became a centrepiece of the district’s anniversary celebrations. It received widespread acclaim and was featured by the British Association for Local History, including a cover story in Local History News.
The project also received support from Croxley Green Parish Council, which provided a grant to help bring the vision to life. As a result, the museum saw a noticeable increase in visitor numbers, greater public engagement, and renewed interest in its collections. “Stitches in Time” has become a popular talking point among stewards and visitors and is now used as a valuable resource for school visits.
This was the museum’s first design-and-make project of its kind and has proven transformative. It underscored the value of creative co-production and community engagement in museum practice, prompting fresh thinking about collaborative working. Future initiatives are now exploring partnerships with local artists and educators to build on the momentum of this success. The museum regards the project as a significant step in its development – both as a celebration of the district and as a model for inclusive, accessible interpretation.