The Watford Observer has teamed up with Watford Museum and its curator Sarah Priestley to take a journey back to the town’s past through items or places of historical significance.

Number 48 in our 'history of Watford in 50 objects' is one that was presented when the first stone of Watford Central Library was laid more than 90 years ago.

Sarah said: "This engraved trowel was presented by the Watford Public Library Committee to their chairman, Councillor F J B Hemming, when he laid the foundation stone of the Central Library, Hempstead Road on Saturday, February 25, 1928.

"The completed building was officially opened in December by Sir Frederick Kenyon and according to the West Herts Post had cost £20,000.

"The old library in Queens Road closed to readers but the buildings remained in use for education."

Watford Museum has now reopened to the public. Admission is free but book first – call 01923 232297 or email info@watfordmuseum.org.uk. For more information, visit www.watfordmuseum.org.uk