A golden key mystery surrounding Wellington's 1,000th council house has finally been solved.
The intrigue began when Wellington Museum volunteers discovered a presentation box from Garrard & Co, containing a golden key awarded by John Laing Construction Ltd to mark the completion of the town's 1,000th council house.
The key, awarded to Wellington Urban District Council in May 1969, led volunteers to delve into past reports from the Wellington Weekly News.
A May 1969 report indicated the key was presented to Mr and Mrs J A Parkinson as the occupants of the 1,000th council house, believed to be in Lillebonne Close.
However, further information emerged stating the Parkinsons resided at 6 Gay Street in Priory, sparking further confusion.
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The museum then received word that Mrs Gloria Parkinson, now in her late-80s, was still living in Wellington.
Her granddaughter informed her of the renewed interest in her story, prompting Mrs Parkinson to visit the museum.
She recounted stories of her time at 6 Gay Street, confirming it as the 1,000th house and dispelling the mystery.
The gold key, which had been anonymously donated to the museum, now rests safely in its collection.
Despite the mystery's resolution, the museum remains keen to discover when and by whom the key was donated.
Meanwhile, Mrs Parkinson is reportedly enjoying her newfound celebrity status in Wellington.
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