Museum of South Somerset

Posted August 26th, 2008 by phl.costelloe
Location: 
Hendford
Location: 
Yeovil
Location: 
Somerset
Location: 
BA20 1UN
Telephone: 
01935 424774
Museum Website: 
Museum Webpages
Parent Organisation: 
Local Authority
YLM Questionnaire Completed: 
Yes
Comment: 
HR On Display: 
Yes
Iconic HR: 
Yes
How many human remains are in its collection, and how many of those are of ancient British provenance: 
The museum holds an unknown number of human remains. Consolidation of the archaeological collection is currently (Jan 2011) under way. Most, if not all, are believed to be of Romano British provenance.
How many of these human remains are well documented, with clear context of date and place of exhumation?: 
All the human remains come from documented digs, but paper records and details need to be consolidated and digitally recorded.
Where there are human remains in store, is there a history of use?: 
Yes - on request, the store is publicly accessible.
Where there are human remains in store, is there potential for use, in display, education or scientific analysis?: 
Under museum and ethical guidelines - yes.
Does the museum have a disposal policy, and is it including HR with negligible potential in its discussions about disposal?: 
The disposal policy is currently under review (Jan 2011).
What sources of information about these human remains are in the public domain and where?: 
The digs and finds from which human remains have come to the collection will have had the data recorded by County Museum, and some will have been published.
Are any of these remains currently on display and in what context?: 
Yes, there is a skeleton of a child (RomanoBritish) on display, together with the lead coffin with which it was found.
What is your opinion, and that of other Pagans or local community, of this display?: 
The museum is not aware of any comments from visitors, Pagans or other local community members. The museum believes the child's remains are of archaeological and public interest but should be treated with respect.
Does the museum hold any iconic HR, i.e. figures of local or national importance, and are these on display?: 
The child's skeleton is considered iconic.