The objects the Museum cares for have been collected over almost 200 years. The collections chart the history of Order of St John, an ancient religious military order, as well as the more recent history of the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of St John of Jerusalem in Britain – including its charitable foundations St John Ambulance and the St John Ophthalmic Hospital. The history of the Priory site and Clerkenwell also feature prominently.
The collection explores a range of themes and stories, with an emphasis on healthcare, community, education, identity, industry, youth, celebration and war across the ages. It is diverse and is made up of tens of thousands of objects, dating from antiquity to the present day, and is international in scope.
Strengths of the collection include England in the 19th and 20th centuries and early modern Malta. There is a large social history collection, including uniform, as well as fine and decorative art, medical equipment, arms and armour, coins of the crusader states and Grand Masters, and medals and insignia.
The collection supports the activities of the Museum, including displays in the galleries and in the community, public events, education and research, engaging with and inspiring families, adults, academics and the St John family.
Many of our objects are available for you to enjoy through Collections Online, as well as in the Museum galleries. We are continually adding to Collections Online so there is always something new to discover!