Museums and Heritage Centres in North Essex
North Essex is steeped in history from Bronze Age and Roman settlements to the industrial successes of the wool, silk, lace and weaving trades upon which our villages and market towns prospered.There are a number of museum & heritage centres in the area. Of international importance, the Warner Textile Archive houses a unique collection of original artwork by leading 20th century designers - with fabric samples boasting royal connections!
Warner Textile Archive
Located at Warner's Mill, the Warner Textile Archive is of national importance, but its roots are firmly here in Braintree. The archive is a unique record of the history of textile manufacture & design since the 18th century. It includes almost every example of woven & printed fabric produced by the Warner company as well as original artwork by leading designers commissioned to furnish palaces, stately homes, liners, hotels & homes.
Braintree District Museum
At Braintree District Museum the story of the District and its diverse industrial and commercial history unfolds. The Main Galleries examine the development of the area from prehistory to the twenty-first century, focusing upon the textile and manufacturing industries of Courtaulds, Warners and Crittalls, as well as displays of Castle Hedingham pottery, the work of the Great Bardfield artists and Essex straw and lace.
