The Dorchester Keep Military Museum Trust

About Us

The Keep Military Museum isn’t just about battles and uniforms — it’s about honouring sacrifice, preserving stories of courage, and educating future generations about the cost of freedom. Through immersive exhibits, personal testimonies, and rare historic artefacts, we bring the human side of conflict to life. But to preserve this legacy and our shared heritage, we need support. Help us safeguard these stories, deepen understanding, and ensure that the lessons of the past continue to shape a better future.

Our History

Today the Keep Military Museum is a striking landmark in the heart of Dorchester. Completed in 1879, it was designed to resemble a Norman Castle, and is built of Portland stone which gives it a white appearance.

The Keep was originally the gatehouse for the Depot Barracks of the Dorsetshire Regiment as well as the County Armoury. It was completed in 1879, in time for the amalgamation of 39th and 54th Regiments of Foot who become the 1st and 2nd Battalions the Dorsetshire Regiment in 1881. The Depot Barracks were the administrative centre for the Dorsetshire Regiment and its centre for recruitment and training. The Depot carried out this function between 1879 and 1958 with only one break. This was during World War Two when the barracks was used by the 701st Ordnance Light Maintenance Company and the 1st Quartermaster Company of the American Armed Forces. 

In 'British Barracks 1600-1914', James Douet explains that:

'The 'keep' or armoury at Dorchester was an unusually realistic interpretation of a mediaeval castle, by the army's standards, which must have been in response to local sensibilities over the historic character of the town.'

Our Aim

Our aim is to maintain a museum and advance education for the benefit of the public and members of the participating regiments about the history of the regiments of Devon and Dorset, past and present, and the military history of those counties. 

What We Do

Even though our doors are currently closed, we are working hard behind the scenes to get the museum reopened as quickly as possible as well as maintaining our unique artefacts. We are also touring the UK bringing our museum to you with our pop-up exhibitions, hosting local events, and inspiring the younger generation with our weekly Young Historians sessions. 

Our Vision for the Future

“The Keep Military Museum is to become a prominent, independent, regional museum based in The Keep, Dorchester, inspiring and educating the present and future communities of Dorset and Devon.  It uses its collection of objects, documents, and testimony in imaginative and compelling ways to tell stories from the past of the soldiers and regiments from the communities of those counties and linked to successor regiments.  It is financially sustainable, able to generate revenue and attract grants to cover its costs and invest in the future, with or without MOD support.”

How You Can Help

Whether you can give a little or a lot, your pledge is a meaningful investment in culture, learning, and community. By supporting us, you’re helping us protect the past — and build something extraordinary for the future. 

With your kind donations, we can create new and exciting exhibitions, honour our soldiers by keeping their stories alive, continue to home rare artefacts as well as new items, and keep our doors - and our minds - open for everyone. 

A Massive Thank You

From all of us here at The Keep Military Museum; thank you so much for your support and for keeping history alive!