Rare Victorian generator is unearthed in office clear out

But the old record books, photographs, waxing stamps, franking machine and heaters are not moving to Richmondshire District Council’s new headquarters in the former Lower School – instead they have moved across town to Richmond Museum.

The items have been collected as a result of the clear-out of offices in Frenchgate and Swale House which have been home to council offices since 1974.

The museum is adding them to its vast collection of memorabilia from the district – and hopes to include them in an exhibition in 2014.

One of the finds is already on display, a rare Victorian Wimshurst Machine, an electric generator, which was discovered in the school’s attics during the conversion work.

The machine, an electrostatic generator for producing high voltages, was with a collection of old scientific instruments.

“It is wonderful that the district council is preserving these artefacts for future generations,” said chairman of the museum Mike Wood.

“The Wimshurst Machine is a particular gem as it is very rare – it has been attracting lots of interest already. “

The district council will move from its offices in Frenchgate, Swale House and Dundas Street in Richmond later this month – the current offices close on November 22.

The authority re-opens at Mercury House on November 26. The £2m Mercury House has been created in the former Lower School site on Station Road.