Medieval Army Nearly Brought to Knees by Rust
A "medieval army" was nearly destroyed when a water pipe burst in the storerooms of the Higgins Armory Museum, Worchester, Massachusetts. "Water is the worst enemy of a collection like this," said Kent dur Russell, museum director, as reported by the Associated Press. "It rusts instantly. Fire would have been far easier to deal with."
An upstairs heating pipe burst, pouring a torrent of water down into the basement storage areas. The flood failed to reach the exhibit hall with the finest part of the collection, but it did jeopardize at least 200 pieces in storage. Restorers and modern armorers are gently burnishing the centuries old, fragile suits. The museum gift shop, newly renovated, was also destroyed in the flood.
[03/08/1998]- Directions:
- I-190 exit 1. Drive north on Hwy 12/West Boylston St./Gold Star Blvd (Those exiting southbound must do a U-turn under the highway - use caution). Past the Greendale shopping mall and over the railroad tracks, take the first right, and another immediate right onto Barber Ave. The Museum is on the right at the end of the first block. Look for the giant knight in armor on the roof.
- Hours:
- The Museum closed forever amid howls of protest in Dec. 2013.
- Status:
- Gone
