THE DOMINION MUSEUM

Press, Volume L, Issue 14991, 11 June 1914, Page 5

THE DOMINION MUSEUM

NEW SITE PROPOSED

(STECIAI* TO "THE PRESS.") WELLINGTON, June 10. .For many years now the almost priceless treasures of the Dominion Museum havo been housed in a crumbling, worm-eaten wooden building that might at any moment go up in smoke. Repeated efforts were mado to get the late Liberal Administration to end such an unsatisfactory condition of affairs, but without result. The Reform Government, however, has taken the matter in hand, and, with characteristic action, is about to put the whole matter on a more satisfactory basis. The intention is to transfer tho museum to a site that will be worthy of such a national institution, and the plan adopted is one that will rid the capital city of what "has been recognised by all visitors to be an eyesore; in other words, the Dominion Museum will be shifted to what is undoubtedly the most splendid sito in the city, namely, Mt. Cook, a low hill at the southern end of the city, upon which at present stands a huge and unlovely building that was designed as a gaol. Suitable buildings will be erected that will quite alter the aspect; of the present eyesore, and the brick building at present used as a barracks, for which it is eminently .unsuited, will be used for the storage of historical records. At the* .same time, the grounds will be beautified, and a portion of the reserve granted as an addition to the Mt. Cook school playground. The proposals have not yet been definitely approved by the Government, hut it is thought by no means impossible that the foundation stone of the new museum may be laid before* the present year is out. In this matter, the Government will be assisting in a piece of practical town-planning that must receive general commendation.