FROM its beginning in 1995, Christmas at the American Museum has grown into one of the high points of the Bath Christmas scene.

Situated in Claverton, the decorations, which are the work of the museum's volunteer guides, fall into two categories the period rooms and the public rooms.

The museum's period rooms span then years from 1690 to 1860 and are decorated in an authentic manner so as to reflect the development of the festive season in America from thanksgiving to Twelfth night.

The public spaces, however, are treated in a less restrained way, and each year the main hall, with its 14 foot tree, and the surrounding spaces are decorated with a different theme.

For 2001 the theme will be music with the tree decoration inspired by music and musical instruments. One perennial favourite is the tree covered in more than 5,000 dried flowers, all grown and dried by museum guides.

In addition to the displays the museum is also becoming known as somewhere to purchase original Christmas presents and decorations, with a special bazaar selling unusual gifts ranging from tree decorations to shaker boxes.

The Christmas displays are open 1pm to 4pm (closed Mondays) from Saturday, November 24 to Sunday, December 16. Pictures of the decorations are available on request.

For further details contact: Susan Carter on 01225 460503 or visit our website www.americanmuseum.org or e-mail amibbath @aol.com