The Friend’s of Winkie’s Castle (FOWC) was formed in July 2003 to preserve and enhance the work of the late Jack Anderson, a cordwainer/cobbler who had lived and worked in Marske most of his adult life.
Jack along with brother Len had purchased the building to save it from demolition in the 1960’s and he created it into a small Folk Museum filled with his own eclectic collection of photographs and objects. When he died in 2001 he bequeathed the Museum and all its contents, nearly 6,000 in total, to Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council on the understanding that it should be preserved for future generations to see and enjoy. Through its Museum’s Curator, Alan Pearce, the Council has encouraged the formation of the Friends of Winkie’s Castle and has greatly supported our efforts to carry out Jack’s wishes.
Much has been achieved!
The building has been completely renovated and, whilst preserving its essential character, it now meets the demands of modern health and safety regulations. The objects have been cleaned and catalogued and are on rolling display, being changed over at least once a year.