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The Tardis at the Sea-Side
Discover history and heritage at Winkies Castle Folk Museum, Marske-by-the-Sea. Founded by local cobbler Jack Anderson in 1975 and bequeathed to Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council on his death in 2001 the Museum is now managed and run by Volunteers and Friends of Winkies Castle.
One of the oldest cottages in Marske it was proudly re-opened by Jack’s nephew Ian Anderson, President of the “Friends of Winkies Castle” on Yorkshire Day, 1st August 2005.
Although Jack Anderson owned the cottage he never lived in it but he adopted a one-eyed cat who made the cottage his home. Jack called the cat “Winkie” and his home was his castle, and that is why we took the cat as our logo.
What is There to See ?
Winkies Castle is the smallest museum in the Teesside area and can comfortably be seen in less than one hour. There is a different display each year with many unique hands-on artifacts from hundreds of years of Marske’s history for visitors to explore. There is a 15 minute DVD of the history of Marske and other DVD material the Stewards would be happy to show anyone who requests it. There is also a large collection of photographs, postcards and other printed material which may be viewed on a touch screen for enjoyment or research.
The building itself is the only Half-Cruck building in the area, being built in the period of transition from full Cruck frames to the more modern pitched roof construction. Renovation and preservation work to make the building secure and safe for visitors was completed in 2005 and incorporates the only “green” roof in Marske over the new office extension hidden at the rear.
Who Runs It ?
The Museum is managed by The Friends of Winkies Castle Management Committee and Volunteers who act as Stewards during the open season and catalogue and preseve artifacts during winter. We are considerably assisted by the Curator and Staff of the Kirkleatham Hall Museum and have the support of the local Parish Council, the District Council, the Tees Valley Community Foundation and many other bodies supporting local heritage projects.
In September 2007 we were very pleased to be awarded the “Quality Assured Visitor Attraction” which has been renewed each year since with glowing reports. We are also members of the Museums and Libraries Archives association.
