The Beacon Museum is inviting residents and visitors to explore the stories, people and industries that have shaped West Cumbria as it launches a special Heritage Week programme from 11 to 20 September.
The programme brings together a range of activities, talks and hands-on experiences designed to help people of all ages discover more about the area’s rich heritage and fascinating past.
Families can begin their Heritage Week journey with a Forensic Archaeology Workshop for children on Saturday 12 September, where young participants can uncover clues from the past and experience what it’s like to investigate archaeological discoveries.
On Tuesday 15 September, visitors can join the Not Only a Coal Town Walk & Talk, which shines a light on the many industries that helped shape Whitehaven. While the town is often associated with coal mining, its harbour also supported thriving shipbuilding, whaling, pottery and tobacco industries, connecting Whitehaven to the wider world and helping establish its place on the map.
The museum’s volunteers will share their passion and knowledge during a series of Heritage Pop-Up Talks on Thursday 17 September. Taking place throughout the day, the talks will bring local history to life through fascinating stories, surprising facts and hidden gems from the museum’s collections. The sessions are included with museum admission and visitors can simply drop in and listen.
The popular Beakid programme will host a Viking Workshop on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September, giving families the opportunity to discover more about Viking life through fun and interactive activities.
Anyone interested in tracing their roots can meet family history expert Bry Cooper on Saturday 19 September. Bry will be offering free informal advice sessions packed with hints, tips and guidance for researching family history, whether visitors are just starting out or looking to overcome a stumbling block in their research.
Visitors can also get hands-on with history during special handling sessions on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September linked to the museum’s popular Carboniferous Monsters exhibition. Led by knowledgeable volunteers, the sessions will allow visitors to get up close to fascinating specimens and objects, learn about creatures that lived hundreds of millions of years ago and discover more about life during the Carboniferous period.
Councillor Anne Quilter, Cumberland Council’s Executive Member for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said:
“Whitehaven has a remarkable story to tell, and Heritage Week is a great opportunity to shine a spotlight on the people, industries and traditions that have shaped the area over the centuries. From discovering more about the maritime past to exploring family history and getting hands-on with objects from the past, there are plenty of opportunities for residents and visitors to connect with local heritage and learn something new.”
Heather Holmes, Customer and Visitor Experience Manager added:
“We want the Beacon Museum to be a place where people feel they can explore, ask questions and discover something they may have not known about the area they live in. I hope Heritage Week encourages both our community and visitors to come through our doors, take part and enjoy discovering more about Whitehaven’s fascinating past.”
For more information about Heritage Week and to book events where required, visit The Beacon Museum website or follow the museum’s social media channels.