Measurement is something that we take for granted, but have you ever wondered how people measured things before the metric system was created? Or even how measurement came to be? Wonder no more - just check out the
Fun With Weights and Measures exhibit at
Pine Rivers Heritage Museum.
The hands on exhibition explores the various ways and means that man has used to determine length, width, temperature and volume throughout time. Rudimentary systems of measurement have existed for as long as recorded history - the ancient Egyptians used their arms, hands and legs to determine length, while the carab seed was once used to determine the weight of gems. Measurement helped man to construct dwellings, trade food and determine the weight of raw materials - you could say that measurement helped society to advance.
Fun With Weights and Measures looks at the advancement of measuring systems, from sundials and scales in ancient times, to more sophisticated units created by farmers in the Middle Ages and through to the standardised measurements we know today. The display makes a great learning experience for children and is fascinating subject matter for adults to explore.
The Pine Rivers Museum also has a range of interactive permanent exhibits for perusal, including displays about early Australian explorers, the first migrants, Australian botany and a multimedia theatre experience about the history of Pine Rivers. Pine Rivers Museum is open Wednesday to Friday from 10 till 3pm, and on Saturday from 10am until 2pm. Sunday trading hours depend on the time of year - see the website for more details. Entry is free and the museum is wheelchair friendly.
