CONTENTS
Section 1 : Introduction
Section 2 : The collection of farm waggons and carts
Section 3 : The Alford connection
Section 4 : The condition of the collection
Section 5 : The proposal to conserve the farm waggons and carts
Section 6 : Funding the proposal
Section 7 : The Wheelwright
Section 8 : The conservation works
Section 9 : Axle stands
Section 10 : Alford Gallery - improvements
Section 11 : Interpretation
Section 12 : Conclusions
Section 13 : Acknowledgements

Appendix A :
A description of the farm waggons and carts held in Tiverton Museum

Appendix B :
Specification for the conservation of farm waggons and carts (revised July 1998)

Appendix C :
Descriptive diagrams of box and bow waggons

 

Summary of the Report

Tiverton Museum of Mid Devon Life has a well provenanced collection of local farm waggons and carts dating from 1860 and includes two rare Devon "Ship" waggons. These vehicles have remained in the condition they left their respective farms and have much historic paintwork. They were however, in need of attention to correct certain structural defects and to prevent further decay from infestation.

Following consultation with other museum professionals a philosophy of conservation was proposed to keep the vehicles in their original condition as far as was practical. This allowed for structural faults to be repaired in a traditional manner and purely aesthetic faults to be left untouched. All vehicles were cleaned and treated to prevent further infestation and oxidisation. Due consideration was given to the "Standards for the Museum care of larger and working objects" (MGC, 1994).

Additionally, work was proposed to re-roof the gallery to prevent ingress of rain, apply ultra-violet filters to the windows and provide axle stands.

Funding came principally from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the PRISM Fund, The South West Museum Council and Devon County Council. After seeking quotations, Mr.Robert Hurford (wheelwright) was appointed to undertake the conservation work. Mr.Peter Meehan of the Science Museum was appointed as Project Monitor. The Science Museum have taken a particular interest in this project  believing it to be both innovatory and unique. Sadly, all too many waggons and carts are either repainted or left to decay.

The conservation work commenced in June 1999 and was completed in March 2001. Works to the gallery (see above), some slight "snagging" and the provision of axle stands continued until December 2001. At all stages the work was recorded and photographed.

I believe that this has been an innovative and successful project which has established a sound philosophical, and practical approach to the care and conservation of these large objects. The vehicles are now available for both public and professional inspection. It has been an interesting and challenging project and a pleasure to give these magnificent vehicles an extended life.

JOHN LEACH
CURATOR