Step Back in Time: The Beacon Launches Monthly Pop-Up History Events

The Beacon Museum is launching a new series of monthly pop-up events offering the local community an opportunity to step back in time and explore our rich local history. Each month, these events will focus on a different theme, from the streets of Whitehaven to its historic pubs and industries, bringing the past back to life through artefacts, personal stories and shared memories.

The first event in the series will take place on the 22 and 23 February at The Beacon Portal, with free entry for all visitors. This first pop-up event will spotlight the history of Sellafield, a site that’s played a pivotal role in the region’s industrial and social landscape for generations. Attendees will have the chance to explore a collection of fascinating artefacts, hear untold stories, and share their own experiences of life and work at Sellafield. This event is free to attend, but please note that museum admission is not included.

The Beacon Museum also welcomes the community to bring along any Sellafield-related memorabilia to share during the event. Whether it’s photographs, items, or personal mementos, this is a wonderful opportunity to reminisce, spark conversations, and celebrate the legacy of Sellafield together.

Organised by The Beacon’s volunteer co-ordinator, Andrew McCourt and a dedicated team of volunteers, these events aim to celebrate the unique heritage of our area. Andrew said: “Our volunteer team have put a huge amount of work into these pop-up events, delving deep into the collection to bring out some truly fascinating pieces. It’s a great opportunity to showcase different parts of the collection, sparking conversations and allowing visitors to connect with our local history in new and exciting ways”.

Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, added:

The Beacon’s new series of pop-up history events is a fantastic opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate our rich heritage. Sellafield has played a significant role in shaping the local area, and this first event will give people the chance to share their memories, explore fascinating artefacts, and contribute to preserving our shared history. “

In addition to the pop-up history events, The Beacon Museum is also hosting a stunning exhibition up until the 30 March, celebrating West Cumbria’s rich industrial heritage through the eyes of some of its most cherished and accomplished artists. This unique collection will provide an artistic lens into the industries that have shaped West Cumbria, from mining and shipbuilding to the energy sector.