Near the Kroshnia railway station in Zhytomyr (42 Bohdana Khmelnytskoho Street) lies one of the city's most unusual attractions. The Crafts Courtyard (Remisnychyi Dvir) is a private folk museum unlike any other in Ukraine. For more than twenty years, it has been assembled by Zhytomyr collector Fedir Yevtushenko.
The museum operates alongside the founder's woodworking business, and visitors are often guided by Yevtushenko himself. Because of this, visits should be arranged in advance.
What You'll See
At first glance, the museum appears to focus exclusively on traditional crafts—and its collection is indeed impressive. Visitors can explore more than 100 historic axes (some sources mention 115), millstones, scythes, anvils, hammers, horseshoes, drills, oil lamps, antique woodworking machines, and numerous historical tools.
The exhibits are organized by profession, showcasing equipment once used by:
- blacksmiths
- carpenters
- wheelwrights
- shoemakers
- barbers
- railway workers
- police officers
- and many other trades.
Many artifacts remain in working condition, while several are considered exceptionally rare.
More Than a Crafts Museum
The collection extends far beyond traditional craftsmanship.
Today, the museum houses more than 20,000 artifacts, including an extensive display of everyday Soviet-era objects. Visitors can see everything from an early internal combustion engine and an old sawmill to vintage dolls, an aluminum guitar, porcelain tableware, bottles of the famous Soviet perfume "Krasnaya Moskva" (Red Moscow), and countless household items from the twentieth century.
It is worth noting that the exhibition also contains a significant amount of Soviet symbolism, which some visitors may find controversial.
The Museum's Most Unique Exhibits
Among the oldest household artifacts are:
- a hand-operated coffee bean roaster;
- a wooden hair curler;
- an unusual food-crushing device once used by people with dental problems.
One of the museum's highlights is a fully functioning reconstruction of a traditional blacksmith's forge.
Inside visitors can see:
- an authentic forge;
- several anvils, including one dating back to 1749;
- original Austrian leather bellows manufactured in the late nineteenth century.
There is also a small antique shop displaying vintage collectibles and handmade souvenirs.
Chapel and Recreation Area
The museum grounds include a small chapel open to visitors of all faiths. Donations collected there are directed to charitable causes.
Guests can also relax in a picnic area equipped with barbecue facilities.
Interactive Experience for Families
Unlike many traditional museums, the Crafts Courtyard offers interactive tours. Visitors are encouraged to try certain traditional crafts themselves under supervision.
The museum is especially popular with families, as it offers children's excursions and a dedicated exhibition featuring toys from different historical periods.
The venue also hosts birthday parties, children's celebrations, and corporate events.
Visitor Information
Address: 42 Bohdana Khmelnytskoho Street, Zhytomyr (near Kroshnia railway station)
Admission (2024 rates):
- Adults — UAH 100
- Children — UAH 50
Prices may change, so visitors are advised to confirm current admission fees before arriving.
Important: This is a private museum. Visits are available by prior appointment, as tours are frequently conducted by the owner himself.
Who Should Visit?
The museum is ideal for:
- families with children;
- history enthusiasts;
- lovers of traditional crafts and ethnography;
- anyone interested in Soviet-era material culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Crafts Courtyard Museum located?
The museum is located at 42 Bohdana Khmelnytskoho Street, Zhytomyr, next to Kroshnia railway station.
How much does admission cost?
According to 2024 information, tickets cost UAH 100 for adults and UAH 50 for children. It is recommended to verify current prices before visiting.
How many exhibits are on display?
The museum's collection contains more than 20,000 artifacts, including approximately 115 historic axes, many of which remain in working condition.
Who founded the museum?
The museum was created by Zhytomyr collector Fedir Yevtushenko and operates at his woodworking enterprise.
Can I visit without booking?
Advance booking is strongly recommended because guided tours are often led personally by the museum's founder.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes. The museum offers interactive activities, children's tours, and an exhibition of vintage toys from different eras.
What makes the museum unique?
Its standout attractions include a working replica of a traditional blacksmith's forge featuring an anvil from 1749, original 19th-century Austrian bellows, rare historical household items, and one of Ukraine's largest private collections dedicated to traditional crafts and everyday Soviet life.
