Norfolk Museum to Observe Centenary with Sikh Emperor Exhibition

A historical museum in Norfolk is set to introduce a “thought-provoking” new display exploring the life of a Sikh emperor, commemorating its centenary. Ancient House, located in Thetford, Norfolk, will observe its 100th anniversary on Wednesday, precisely a century after its initial opening to the public in 1924. To mark this occasion, the museum will unveil an exhibition dedicated to Maharajah Duleep Singh, whose son Prince Frederick acquired the building in 1921 and subsequently donated it to the town. The exhibition will investigate the family’s “fascinating” experiences in regions such as Punjab, Suffolk, and Norfolk, utilizing intricate models and their personal belongings. Duleep Singh was the youngest son of Maharajah Ranjit Singh, who established the Sikh empire in the Punjab in 1799. Following the deaths of his father and brother, Duleep Singh assumed leadership of the kingdom at the age of five, but was deposed after Britain annexed the Punjab in 1849. At the age of 15, he arrived in England and resided there for the remainder of his life. Some of the items on display will be sourced from the collection of Peter Bance, a Sikh historian and consultant for the project, and his family. He stated: “The Ancient House owes its very existence to the generosity of Prince Frederick Duleep Singh.” “It is fitting to be marking the museum’s centenary with new displays about the family and it is a privilege to be part of this moment in history.” The exhibition will feature Prince Frederick’s sandwich box and writing case, alongside a model of Elveden Hall, in Suffolk, where Maharajah Duleep Singh lived with his family. Artifacts belonging to his children will also be included, such as a set of sheet music composed by Prince Victor, a childhood musical score book written by Princess Irene, and Princess Sophia’s silver cigarette lighter. Furthermore, it will place increased emphasis on Maharajah Duleep Singh’s mother, Maharani Jind Kaur, and his first wife, Bamba Müller. Dr Priya Atwal, a historian and project consultant, commented: “We are increasingly uncovering new layers and greater nuance in our understanding of the lives of this man and his family.” “The Duleep Singhs may have been royalty, but their experiences as exiles and members of the local community echo down the ages.” The exhibition, titled “A History of Ancient House in 100 Objects,” will serve as the inaugural component of the museum’s centenary programme. Additional events and activities are scheduled to take place throughout the year to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Robert Kybird, who chairs both the Breckland Area Museums Committee and Breckland Council, remarked: “A centenary is always a special occasion to be celebrated.” For updates on Norfolk news, follow BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram, and X. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our policy on external linking is available.