Lancashire Archives celebrate Heritage Open Days

Lancashire Archives, on Bow Lane, Preston will be opening its doors on Saturday 10 September to celebrate an annual heritage event encouraging people to find out more about their local history.

Heritage Open Days offer an opportunity for people to explore their heritage, architecture and culture by getting involved in activities or events, the majority of which are free.

Activities include behind the scenes tours of the archives, to take a look at the nine miles of treasured objects, items and records. The tours will take place at 11am, 12 noon, 1.30pm and 2.30pm. Each tour will take approximately 45 minutes and you can just turn up – there is no need to book.

Visitors will also be able to see a special exhibition of some of the items kept in the archives, including an original Preston Guild Roll recording the names of the burgesses elected at the Preston Guild Merchant of 1662.

An inventory of the belongings of Jane Towneley of Hapton, the widow of Richard Towneley of Towneley Hall, when she died in 1634, is also showcased. The inventory lists the farm animals, crops, household goods and personal effects left by Jane. It is written on several sheets of parchment which are sewn together to make an 18 foot long roll.

Keen photographers will be able to see some experimental 19th century photography, taken by John Mercer of Great Harwood. Some of John's work, achieved by printing photographs on to pieces of cotton, will also be included in the display.

To find out more information about the special events at Lancashire Archives for the Heritage Open Days, telephone 01772 533039, email [email protected] or visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/archives

For more information about the special events taking place at other venues visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/museums