Looking for the perfect gift for the history-lover in your life – what about sponsoring an object from the Yorkshire Museum’s collection?
The ‘Adopt an Object’ scheme was launched by York Museums Trust in summer 2025 alongside the opening of its exhibition, Viking North.
The object-focused fundraising programme provides the opportunity for annual sponsorship of some of the Yorkshire Museum’s collections, and the chance to connect with both the museum’s collection and the history of Yorkshire in a new and exciting way.
This Christmas, five new objects have been added to the adoption list – including the White Boar of York badge, which was once a symbol of support for Richard III in Yorkshire during the fifteenth century.
Two special rings – the Fulford Ring and Escrick Ring – have also been brought into the ‘Adopt an Object’ scheme, as some of the Yorkshire Museum’s most popular and recognisable objects.
Alongside these three pieces of Yorkshire’s history is the Middleham Jewel, one of the most significant in the Yorkshire Museum’s collection. Discovered close to Middleham Castle, North Yorkshire, the Middleham Jewel may have belonged to someone in Richard III’s household. The sapphire may have served a magical or medicinal purpose as well as being highly decorative.
A brand-new acquisition is also now available to adopt. The Ring of the Three Kings was brought into the Yorkshire Museum’s collection only a few months ago after being discovered at Sessay, North Yorkshire.
The inscription on the ring names the Three Magi (also known as the Three Wise Men or Three Kings), who brought gifts to the baby Jesus in the Nativity story. The names of the Magi are common inscriptions on medieval rings and brooches and are believed to protect the wearer against things like epilepsy or fevers.
This ring is now on display in the Yorkshire Museum for the first time, just in time for Christmas.
Emily North, curator of archaeology at York Museums Trust, commented on the new acquisition: “We’re really pleased to welcome such a stunning ring into our collection.
“With its seasonal theming it’s the perfect addition to our new Medieval display on gallery and our festive ‘Adopt an Object’ scheme. We hope visitors enjoy seeing the beautiful ring amongst other shimmering golden treasures as part of a winter trip to the Yorkshire Museum.”
Several objects from the Viking North exhibition such as the Thor’s Hammer Pendant with its gold inlay, the York Helmet, Ormside Bowl and treasures from the Bedale Hoard and Vale of York Hoard are still up for adoption.
All proceeds received from the ‘Adopt an Object’ scheme are reinvested directly back into York Museum Trust collections, buildings and gardens, to care for the places and objects and ensure their preservation for future generations.
Those who choose to adopt an object will be given a personalised adoption certificate to thank them for their generosity.
The festive objects are available for adoption for a limited time only, so head to The Yorkshire Museum website to find out more.
