Topsham Museum announces Earl of Devon as first-ever patron

Topsham Museum has announced its first-ever patron - Charles Courtenay, 19th Earl of Devon.

The Earl lives on the opposite shore of the Exe Estuary from Topsham, on the Powderham estate that has belonged to his family since 1325. He now runs this as an environmental heritage enterprise, sustainably managing the ancient land and buildings for social benefit.

He has been an active supporter of the Topsham community and its Museum for many years.

In August 2016 he took part in the first of the modern era ’Charter Day’ celebrations in Topsham, arriving by boat from Powderham to receive a copy of the charter granted to Hugh Courtenay - one of his predecessors - in 1300.

In 2022 he gave a spirited Topsham Museum lecture on ‘1,000 Years of the Estuary at the Cutting Edge’ to a packed audience of over 250 people at the town’s Matthews Hall.

“I have always been an admirer of Topsham Museum. It hosts a wonderful collection showing the town’s history, especially its trading and maritime roots based around the estuary. It also has a central role in the town today, as a focus for residents who volunteer, and a destination for visitors” explains the Earl.

His acceptance of the role of Patron comes as the Museum approaches 40 years in its current form. It is run entirely by volunteers and is about to undertake a new programme of fund-raising and a re-interpretation of how it commemorates life in the town and on the estuary.

“We are delighted that Charles Courtenay has accepted the position of Patron. He is a widely respected and popular figure in the local community and has an active role in the House of Lords, adding weight and authority to our activities” explains Jenny Ellis, chair of the Museum trustees.

“As we embark on a new chapter for the Museum - reshaping our collections and emphasising the stories behind Topsham and its community - we are honoured that we have such an influential local voice to lead us” she continues.

In 2023 around 200 volunteers put in an estimated 15,000 unpaid hours running the Museum, which includes a typical Merchant’s House of the late 17th century.

It is free to enter and covers its running costs with the proceeds of a tea room and gift shop, donations from visitors and from fund-raising activities such as the bi-annual Topsham Secret Gardens event.

The Museum also has an outreach programme working with local schools and organisations, and has a formal link with Exeter’s Royal Albert Memorial Museum.