Tin Shed Experience

 
Photos: 17

AmeriCymru: Hi Seimon and many thanks for agreeing to this interview. How would you describe the 'Tin Shed Experience'?

Seimon: "Old School Museum with a real interest in people." For four very happy years I worked as a stills photographer for American Magazine "Armchair General" Weider History Group. When my contract came to it's end, I was left without a job, I was living in Aberystwyth at the time, and unfortunately had to sell my house and move back to Carmarthenshire. I happened to bump into an old friend who invited me to Laugharne, (Dylan Thomas Country) to put on a display of WW2 memorabilia in the local memorial hall. I'd been collecting items from the second world war because of my involvement with "reconstructions and film work" so basically they were props and costumes. Our 1940's event raised over £1500 for the hall, but made us realise there was significant interest in the 1940's period in the area. That is when we had the bright idea of opening up a museum.

AmeriCymru: In what ways does the 'Tin Shed' differ from an ordinary museum?

Seimon: We have no signs to explain the exhibits, we have no shop for merchandise, we have no computer technology or interactive screens. I would describe ourselves as "Old School".....we love meeting people and we get to hear their stories.

AmeriCymru: It has been 3 years since we talked last. How has the project developed in that time?

Seimon: Where do I start?!..We now have a dedicated group of volunteers helping us, We've had grant funding for various projects including bathroom facilities and an undercover area for school visits. We've had charity music events including bands from Canada ( Tia McGraff) and Nashville (Lost Hollow). We've also been able to help other local museums by loaning items to them, consequently building a network of local support for other venues. To be honest, there's so much that has happened and so many more ideas on the horizon.

AmeriCymru: Promoting local artists has been an important part of your work over the years. Any current plans in that area?

Seimon: More charity events next year...of different types, keep an eye on our Facebook page/ Website as plans get confirmed.

AmeriCymru: What does the future hold for the Tin Shed Experience? Any planned expansions or future events you would like to mention?

Seimon: The collection is growing, and we hope it may take more of a "Home Front" direction. On certain days of the week our volunteers become 'Living Exhibits' too...with Marion our local dressmaker actually using a vintage sewing machine to make clothes from original patterns. We also plan on having more schools to visit.

One of our major exhibition planned for 2017 is to commemorate the GI's who were stationed in Wales from October 1943 to April 1944. We're looking for stories and accounts from that period, even memorabilia if people care to donate.

Also looking at Welsh heritage and family tree projects. Both Andrew (Isaacs) Co-director and owner of the Tin Shed ) and myself have an interest in the Welsh in 'Old' America, with Andrew just recently returning from the anniversary of the Little Big Horn.

AmeriCymru: Any final message for the members and readers of AmeriCymru?

Seimon: Thrilled that we get your support, please feel that you can get involved with us, despite that bit of water that separates us.

Diolch yn fawr! Pob Hwyl! Seimon