AN exhibition of items collected in Peru by an enthusiastic amateur archaeologist from Warrington more than 100 years ago opens at the town’s museum at the end of the month.
The exhibition – the largest collection of ancient Peruvian artefacts in England – will take the visitor on a fascinating 
adventure through one of the world’s most exotic countries.
It was put together by William Smithies, formerly assistant manager of a Warrington cotton mill, but also a talented archaeologist.
Between 250-300 objects, including pottery, domestic objects and metalwork, were given to Warrington Museum in 1898 by Mr Smithies.
More of his material later came to light in museums across the North West and even in London.
Now his grandsons have also opened their family album to offer the museum their grandfather’s Victorian photographs of his time in Peru.
The never-seen-before collection explores the lives of the Peruvian people and includes items from ancient graves in Peru.
“Mr Smithies and the Lost Tombs of Peru” runs from October 30 to February 21. Admission is free.
While the exhibition is running, there will be a number of free family-friendly drop-in events.
These include: 
Tuesday October 28: 10am – 3pm: Make a grave doll. Learn how to make and decorate a colourful Peruvian style doll from card, fabric and wool. Suitable for children aged 3-12.
Thursday October 30: 10am – 3pm: Make a death skull. Learn how to make and decorate a creepy cardboard skull. Suitable for children aged 3-12.
Saturday November 1, 10am – 3pm: The Big Draw: Action Heroes Day: Create an action hero and draw their adventures in a comic.
Pictured: Top photograph shows Mr Smithies with some of his unique collection. Lower photograph is of some of the ancient skulls.
