The Featherston Heritage Complex Society Inc was formed in 1992 to provide a museum to house a collection of information and memorabilia from the WWI Featherston Military Training Camp, the WWII Japanese Prisoner of War Camp and of Featherston and its surrounding districts.
In February 2017 the museum participated in highly successful television Heritage Rescue series which resulted in superior and upgraded displays. The museum opens on weekends and by request, and is staffed by volunteers. Entry is $5 for adults and free for children and students. While the entry fees assist with running costs, major projects and building maintenance are financed by grants and fund raising.
Every two years the museum hosts the internationally acclaimed Chor-Farmer (a male voice choir) formed in 1967 by Hiroshi Masumoto at the Tokyo University of Agriculture. In 1977 they commenced bi‑annual tours of Australia and New Zealand to promote peace and goodwill through music and friendship. Featherston was added to the itinerary in 2002 and the Heritage Museum arranges accommodation and meals in exchange for a fundraising concert.
Trust House’s donation of $500 helped fund the supper after the concert and a Kiwi Style dinner for the choir and host families.
Benefits for the community:
- the ability to attend a world-class musical performance locally at an affordable price
- opportunity to participate in a cultural exchange
- an occasion to visit to Garden of Remembrance on SH 2 and reflect on the 1943 Incident
- improved exhibits and maintenance to provide a top class experience for visitors
