East Hendred Heritage Trust grew out of a Museum/Heritage organisation started by the Hendred's Society when they held very successful local exhibitions of Hendred's Heritage in the late 60's and 70's.

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The Eyston family had refurbished the near derelict chapel of Jesus of Bethlehem (then known as Champs Chapel) in 1974 enabling a more permanent collection of village memorabilia to be started and continued for some years by the Parish Council. This was done very much under the auspices of the late Olga Ashthorpe one of the then Parish Councillors and at that time also Clerk to the Council.

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In the mid 90's the Parish Council could no longer justify the regular financial commitment required and relinquished the lease on the Chapel.

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A group of village people took on the responsibility of Trusteeship. Short-term leases from the Hendred Estate have been obtained.

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The East Hendred Heritage Trust was registered as a charity and a company limited by guarantee in 2002. The Trust obtains funds by various fund raising events, as well as from individuals and organisations. As an accredited museum and Charity some concessions are available to reduce the overheads and to help provide essential museum services.

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The Chapel remains open to the public without having to resort to entrance fees though Gift Aid donations are welcomed to help keep the museum active. Trustees have recently been able to arrange for a permanent base as well as archival storage in Snells Hall.

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