The Cater Museum 

Billericay has its own museum! The Cater Museum. If you didn't know about it, don't worry, you are not alone. Situated in the High Street, the entrance is fairly inconspicuous as it is the middle of three doors at number 74. To the left is a blinds shop and to the right a jewellers.

From 2pm to 5pm each day (not Sundays or Bank Holidays) that middle door is unlocked and you are welcome to enter FOR FREE. The museum building and many of its consents were a gift from Mrs A. M. Cater who wanted to provide a home for the many local relics that she felt needed to be preserved for the people of Billericay. 

The present curator is Mrs Christine Brewster and she continues the efforts of her predecessors in collecting, authenticating and displaying new items as and when they are discovered or donated. Her latest projects have included a silk picture, a leaded window of Sir Perceval Perry who was instrumental in establishing the Ford Motor Company in Britain and a roman coin from AD 227. 

From the entrance hall stairs lead up to two floors of themed rooms and there is a back garden that is used for many events. As you stroll around you can experience the look and feel of a Victorian kitchen with its range of equipment and utensils, a bedroom complete with commode and a cosy parlour set ready for afternoon tea. 

Christine and/or one of the volunteer helpers love to meet and greet visitors to the museum and can provide information and insight about the many artefacts on display. You can find out more about the museum on the Internet at www.catermuseum.co.uk but to fully appreciate the room settings you need to pay it a visit. Christine and her 'team' hope to see you there soon. 

Stop Press!

The Cater Museum announces a Heritage Lottery Fund Grant of £41,000. Visit the museum's web site for more information.