Ryedale Folk Museum

Blacksmith and volunteer extraordinaire Robin Butler turned 80 on Saturday 27th March. Robin had expressed his wish to spend his birthday at the museum, doing what he does best -blacksmithing! A lovely day was had by all and there was a big crowd to celebrate the event. Many local blacksmiths attended the party and each made a nail in the museum's forge which was then banged into the wooden 'birthday cake'. Below are two videos of the day, one showing some of the blacksmithing which took place and the other of the festivities in Fat Betty's . Many lovely photos were taken too so there's also a slideshow. A big blog post for a big birthday! C.Gough (pics by P and S Gough)

Two of the museum's lively volunteers, 98 year old Geoffrey Willey, (photographer) and the slightly younger Robin Butler, (blacksmith) take a well deserved break after an eight hour shift at the museum.

Robin Butler, a stalwart volunteer at Ryedale Folk Museum is often to be seen at the Blacksmith' s shop fettling something whilst people watch. In this short film he is making a Celtic brooch whilst being interviewed by a young visitor.

Robin Butler, a stalwart volunteer at Ryedale Folk Museum is often to be seen at the Blacksmith' s shop fettling something whilst people watch. In this short film he is making a Celtic brooch whilst being interviewed by a young visitor.

Life in times past in the Ryedale area has changed vastly over the years. These photographs are just a small example of the archive collection.