Märjamaa Museum
Raplamaa
Founded in 1982 by cultural historian Aleksei Parnabas, Velise Sillaotsa Farm Museum is located in Raplamaa, Märjamaa parish. The museum offers an extensive exhibition of rural life, work, and tools used by the local farming community of South-Western Läänemaa, specifically Velise and Märjamaa parishes. Most agricultural implements on display were crafted locally, including a rare threshing machine with a disc drive made by a local master craftsman. Many of the machines remain operational, providing a vivid link to traditional farming practices. The museum grounds also feature a dendrarium with 170 species of protected trees and shrubs surrounding the farm buildings. The site hosts seasonal workdays, thematic events, folk celebrations, and theatrical performances, preserving and promoting local cultural heritage.
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Tip: Visitors are encouraged to attend the museum's workdays and folk events to experience local traditions authentically. The best time to visit is during the warmer months when outdoor activities and demonstrations take place. Advance booking may be advisable for group visits or event participation. Discounts may be available for students or seniors.
Interesting facts
- •The museum houses a rare threshing machine with a disc drive made by a local craftsman, still operational today.
- •The dendrarium around the farm contains 170 species of protected trees and shrubs, making it a notable botanical collection.
- •Many of the agricultural tools exhibited were locally made, highlighting the traditional craftsmanship of the region.
History
Velise Sillaotsa Farm Museum was established in 1982 by Aleksei Parnabas, a home researcher and cultural historian dedicated to preserving rural heritage.
Over the years, it has grown into a repository of agricultural history from the mid-19th century through to the near present, emphasizing local craftsmanship.
The museum maintains many original farm buildings and machinery, some still in working order, reflecting the historical farming lifestyle of the region.
Place Guide
Farm Buildings and Exhibition Halls19th century and later
Original farm buildings that house exhibitions on rural life, tools, and farming methods used in the region from the mid-19th century onwards.
Threshing Machine Exhibit19th century
A rare threshing machine with a disc drive crafted by a local master craftsman, notable for its operational condition and historical significance in local agriculture.
Dendrarium
An arboretum with 170 species of protected trees and shrubs surrounding the museum buildings, serving both conservation and educational purposes.
