Recently we have begun a new series highlighting smaller, niche museums around the world that deserve more recognition than they get, and the British Lawnmower Museum certainly falls into that category!
This quintessential British attraction in Southport (England) is one of the world's leading authorities and specialists in vintage lawnmowers. In their collection you can find some of the earliest garden machines in existence, as well as the most famous ones. From Princess Diana's to Brian May's (rock band Queen's guitarist), you'll never have to wonder again how the rich and famous might have managed their meadows.
More than just museum, the folks at Lawnmower World (parent organisation) are true experts on lawnmowing antiques and also sell parts and services for the ancient machines. On their website, they even offer an "Ask an Engineer" inquiry option for technical advice and information. It's easy to see that this museum supports (and is supported by) a community full of lawnmowing enthusiasts.
Never once have I wondered, "How did anyone dream up the invention of the lawnmower?", but after hearing about this museum, I found myself wondering exactly how someone decided to walk around their lawn with a sharp blade spinning over 200mph (320km/h) hovering near their toes.
In 1830, when Edwin Beard Budding came up with such a concept, he was quickly deemed a madman. The lawnmower's social disapproval got to the point where Budding could only tests his invention in the shadows of the night. If only his neighbors knew his machine would eventually be a staple of millions of households (and palaces) worldwide.
At the British Lawnmower Museum, you can actually see the world's first lawn-leveling wonder, and learn much more about how Budding developed this outlandish concept.
We don't want to spoil all of the museum's surprises, but get excited for lawnmower "racing" and for a guest appearance of a lawnmower made by Rolls Royce!
Have you ever wanted to stand in a room full of historic lawn grooming machines? Maybe not. But do you now? Absolutely. Luckily if you can't make it all the way to Southport to visit Lawnmower World, you can browse their online previews to feed your curiosity.