Ipswich Museums have been officially awarded Designated status by the Arts Council England, for the high quality Post-Cretaceous Geology Collection.
The collection, which includes the remains of iconic woolly mammoth and woolly rhino, is particularly special in its representation of Suffolk and the best geological record for the ice age in the country.
Professor Adrian M. Lister, Research Leader at the Natural History Museum in London, says: “The geology collections at Ipswich Museums contain critical material for the British ice age (Plio-Pleistocene) sequence, not found anywhere else.”
Arts Council England’s Designation scheme identifies the pre-eminent collections of national importance held in England’s non-national museums, libraries and archives, based on their quality and significance.
Councillor Carole Jones, Portfolio Holder at Ipswich Borough Council, says:
“We are thrilled to hear that Ipswich Museums Post-Cretaceous Geology collection is being recognised with such an accolade. It’s wonderful that we have such a high-quality collection of Ice Age geology, and I’m very grateful to our highly skilled staff for all the work they have done to gain this designation. Ipswich can be proud to have a collection of national importance.”
Darren Henley, Chief Executive of Arts Council England, adds: “We are delighted to award this prestigious accolade to Ipswich Museums. Their Post-Cretaceous Geology Collection offers a fascinating and important insight into the history of the nation.”
Ipswich Museums are committed to high standards and the continued recognition of this remarkable collection.
