At the centre of Hornsea Museum stands the Grade II Listed building of Burns Farm, which was bought and opened to the public by the founders of the museum over 30 years ago. Burns Farm appears to be an excellent example of a mid-18th century Holderness farmhouse of two storeys with a painted brick façade and pantile roof. On closer inspection it is clear that a much earlier single-storey building, constructed of locally-sourced cobblestone, gathered from the beach, lies at its heart. Pre-18th century domestic buildings are particularly rare in the East Riding.  In the hands of one family for many generations, and preserved since as a museum, the unspoilt interior of Burns Farm is exceptional. Another significant feature is the retention of its outbuildings. There are very few such farmsteads surviving within towns, once a common feature before the enclosure of the open fields.  

 Recently, the exterior of the centrepiece building that fronts Hornsea's main street had begun to look shabby.  In late 2010, we applied for, and were successful with an application for a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund.  This funding is allowing us to put a much deserved spotlight on our fantastic historic building by concentrating our efforts on research, conservation and re-presentation of the building for the benefit of our visitors now and in the future. Previously some may have regarded Burns Farm as merely the setting of our social history collections and a part of Hornsea Museum, but with the help of this project we are beginning to return it to its rightful place as the star heritage asset of our organisation.

There was much excitement when, at the beginning of 2012, workmen started to clad the outside of the building with scaffolding in order to start work on windows, chimneys and brickwork.

You can keep up to date with happenings at Hornsea Museum through its new blog.  Visit http://hornseamuseum.blogspot.com/ for the latest.

Churchill's Secret Army

Churchill's Secret Army was envisaged months before the war was declared.  It was to be staffed by reliable local men who had special skills to offer, such as gamekeepers and farm workers who knew their areas like the backs of their hands.

Marksmen, athletes and even doctors who had reason to be out at night were recruited.  Hidden underground bunkers with escape tunnels were created with bunks to accommodate 6 men, they had a water tank and were stocked with explosives, rifles, grenades etc.

The members of the patrols were to go to ground behind the enemy lines, and their role was to wreak havoc with the occupying forces.  They might destroy the banks of rivers, railway lines and tunnels  to hinder the enemy's advance.

It was a hazardous commitment and despite their careful training, their life expectancy was likely to be measured in days rather than weeks.

Three Auxiliary Battalions were created

201 Battalion in Scotland and N. England

202 Battalion in Yorkshire and Midlands and

203 Battalion in the South.

Unlike members of the Home Guard, Civil Defence, Auxiliary Fire Service and Women's Land Army, they did not receive the Defence Medal.

As recognition of their service, on the 70^th Anniversary of their creation, Hornsea Museum has commissioned plaques so that members, relations or museums can commemorates the bravery of these men and their commitment to country.

Plaques cost £29.50 plus postage, from the museum.  Please telephone 01964 533443 for further information.

Individual names can be placed at the top of the shield up to 40 characters for an extra  £1.95.