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A remarkable hand-carved miniature model depicting an East Sussex town has endured as one of the region’s most unexpected heritage treasures. Known as the Rye Town Model, this 1:100 scale replica was crafted in the 1970s by Joy Harland and her husband Ted, who dedicated nearly four years to meticulously recreating the town’s appearance during the mid-19th century.
Originally designed as part of a larger project, the model evolved into a nationally recognized attraction, drawing visitors from across the country and beyond. Simon Parsons, manager of the Rye Heritage Centre, highlighted its significance: “It’s a very important tool for tourism in giving people an introduction to the town and our history, and what they can learn and get out of being in a medieval town.”
Upon its debut in 1976, the model became the focal point of “The Story of Rye,” an immersive show narrating 700 years of local history. Parsons praised the model’s uniqueness, noting its impressive 8 by 5 meters in size and the distinctive sound and light show that accompanies it. The Harlands were inspired to create the structure after encountering a similar display on a trip to Ghent, Belgium, and constructed the model using polystyrene packaging sourced from a friend.
After several years on display, the model was purchased by a showman and exhibited at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham for two years before being offered back to the Rye Town Council. Parsons recounted, “He told them that if they didn’t buy it, it was to be no more.” To preserve the model, the council pooled resources to acquire it for £3,000. However, as the early 21st century approached, interest waned, visitor numbers declined, and the Heritage Centre faced financial difficulties. By 2020, with the Centre closed due to the pandemic, there were serious concerns the model might be dismantled or relegated to long-term storage.
Ultimately, a dedicated group of local residents formed a new charity to rescue both the Heritage Centre and the model. They took ownership, undertook restoration work to clean and repair the model, and introduced updated projection and audio technology. The attraction successfully reopened in 2021, ensuring that this unique historical representation continues to educate and inspire visitors today
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