By Ms Marilyn Dias for BIS Mumbai

St Joseph’s High School, Wadala, had the unique opportunity to host the Trunk Museum—an outreach initiative of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya. Unlike a permanent gallery, the Trunk Museum brings curated replica artifacts directly to schools, allowing students to explore history through touch, observation, and hands-on learning. Each trunk contains carefully selected objects and learning aids designed to make the museum experience accessible and interactive.

 With the support of the Principal Fr Solomon Rapol and under the guidance of Mrs Cressieda Rodrigues, Head of the Social Studies Department, and in collaboration with the Trunk Museum Project team, an enriching three-day exhibition was organised for students of Classes 5 to 10.

 Day 1: Exploring the Stone Age (Classes 5 & 6) Students of Classes 5 and 6 visited the Parish Hall, where they engaged with the Stone Age trunk. Resource persons Shivam Khedekar and Tushar Kadam introduced students to life in the Stone Age through replica tools from different eras, interactive flash cards, and fact cards. Stories of early humans—both from India and across the world—brought the prehistoric era alive, making learning both informative and exciting.

 Day 2: A Journey Into the World of Fossils (Classes 9 & 10) Classes 9 and 10 embarked on a fascinating prehistoric adventure with the Fossils Trunk, led by resource persons Thomasina Dsouza and Resham Gudhekar. Through replica fossils, charts, and flash cards, students explored ancient plants, animals, and environments. The session offered a hands-on journey into Earth’s distant past and the evolution of life.

 Day 3: The Art of Indian Miniatures (Classes 7 & 8) Students of Classes 7 and 8 were introduced to the exquisite tradition of Indian Miniature Painting. Resource persons Jayitri Gogoi and Tushar Kadam guided them through the trunk, which showcased the historical evolution, regional styles, techniques, and symbolism of miniature art. The session offered a vibrant glimpse into India’s rich artistic heritage.

 Across all three days, each session concluded with an engaging question-and-answer round. Students were encouraged to hold and closely observe the objects, deepening their understanding through direct interaction. They were also given well-designed worksheets, which they thoroughly enjoyed completing.

 The Trunk Museum experience proved to be an enriching and insightful initiative, sparking curiosity, enhancing classroom learning, and fostering a deeper appreciation for history, science, and art among our students.