For those who are unfamiliar with Bowes, it is situated in the quiet countryside of County Durham... it is a hidden treasure. The history of Bowes tells a wonderful love story of John and Josephine Bowes. Like the perfect love story, they met and fell in love under the Eiffel tower. John was a successful businessman and the beautiful Josephine was a Parisian actress. They soon married and returned to England, Barnard Castle, John's hometown. With their shared passion in art and painting, they began their grand project on building a world-class museum and gallery. In 1869, Josephine laid down the first foundation stone. They bought in treasures from around the world and one piece that particularly captured their hearts was the 'Silver Swan Music Box '. Bought in 1872, it remains today as the museums most prized piece. Their happiness was short lived when suddenly Josephine passed away. Heart broken, John could not carry on the project and his health declined and passed away a few years later. Josephine's wish of laying the top stone was never carried out.
Their love is represented by the Silver Swan, where it is put to work only once a day. At 2pm precisely, the swan comes to life, dancing and enchanting the audience. Every time i watch it, it moves me greatly...
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