The new room is filled with stories, toys and a model train set which is on loan from the Museum of Australian Childhood.

“Also displayed are objects from the time when the building was used as a baby health centre,” said Morpeth Museum Chairperson Alan Todd.

“We have displays from both the museum and The National Trust Museum of Australian Childhood collections such as Ginger Meggs, rocking horses and cuddly toys,” Mr Todd said.

He said early 1950s Thomas the Tank Engine stories and illustrations are also display.

Mr Todd said the museum now has four themed rooms (railway, churches, houses and children’s).

“It also has other exhibition areas showing hotels, Arnott’s memorabilia, Port Morpeth shops and  Morpeth industries.

The Museum was originally Morpeth Courthouse which was constructed in 1862 on land donated by Lieutenant Edward Close, the founder of Morpeth.

The building was used as a courthouse and civic centre from 1862 until the importance of Morpeth as a commercial river port declined and there was less need for its services. Court proceedings stopped in 1942.

The building was used as a recruitment office during the second world war, a Red Cross station, baby health centre, a library, a residence and now a museum.

Mr Todd said some original courtroom fittings are still in place so visitors can sit in the judge’s chair or stand in the dock.