The 21st of December is the shortest day in the Northern Hemisphere.We will then welcome the return of the Sun, and longer days. Our object of the month, was chosen by Adel Shahim and is very fitting. Steph, our Community Engagement Officer has been working with Adel, who’s most recent visit to Museum and Art Swindon was with the Coffee and Conversation group.
Adel has chosen the Sundial from the Town Gardens which dates from about 1894. Adel writes, ‘This sundial was used to tell the time, when we can see the shadow. We can read “Tempus Fugit”, which means “Time Flies”.’ Adel explains why the sundial is his object of the month: ‘I am interested and enjoy studying instruments used to find time and location. I know how to and have used nautical almanac books and instruments to find an object’s position, and to calculate the time (e.g. instruments including the sextant, astrolabe, and navigation techniques such as ex-meridian).’
The sundial is on display in the History of Swindon galleries at Museum and Art Swindon – why not pop in and have a look!
