In the heart of Wigan, Greater Manchester, lies a treasure trove of local history and culture - the Museum of Wigan Life. This fascinating museum, housed in a splendid nineteenth-century building designed by the renowned architect Alfred Waterhouse, offers visitors a unique glimpse into the vibrant past and present of Wigan and its people. The building itself is a marvel, with its Elizabethan Revival style and Gothic features, making it a standout landmark in the town.
The origins of the Museum of Wigan Life date back to 1878 when it first opened as Wigan’s public library. Funded by generous bequests from mill owner Thomas Taylor and Dr. Joseph Winnard, the library was an immediate success. The ground floor housed an ornate entrance hall, a lending library, and a newsroom, while the first floor featured a reference library and a meeting room for the Public Library Committee. The library’s collection grew rapidly, with the reference library boasting 15,300 volumes and the lending library 6,808 volumes within its first eight months.
As the library’s popularity soared, an annexe was added in 1892 to accommodate the increasing demand for newspapers and periodicals. The building’s role as a library continued until 1990, when the library was relocated to the New Town Hall due to space constraints.
In 1992, the old library building was repurposed as the History Shop by Wigan Heritage Services. This new incarnation aimed to host both permanent and temporary exhibitions, showcasing Wigan’s rich heritage. The History Shop also provided a study and research area, housing local history collections, parish registers, and census returns. Initially, the building was shared with the Wigan Careers Service, but by 1995, Wigan Heritage Services had taken over the entire building.
Funding from the National Lottery and a generous donation from Monica Whickham, the last surviving daughter of Wigan vicar William Whickham, facilitated further development. In recognition of this donation, the art gallery by the Library Street entrance was renamed the Whickham Gallery.
The History Shop closed its doors in 2009 for a £1.6 million refurbishment, reopening in 2010 as the Museum of Wigan Life. This extensive redevelopment, funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Wigan Council, and Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust, included both internal and external restoration. The roof was re-tiled, and the ground floor exhibition space was revamped to focus on aspects of Wigan life and culture. New features included an additional staircase, a family study area, and a refurbished reception area, meeting room, and shop.
The museum was officially opened by the Mayor of Wigan, Michael Winstanley, on 1 July 2010. Within its first six months, the museum welcomed 16,000 visitors, a testament to its enduring appeal and the community’s interest in its local heritage.
Visitors to the Museum of Wigan Life are greeted by a rich tapestry of exhibits that bring Wigan’s history to life. The museum’s permanent displays cover a wide range of topics, from the town’s industrial heritage and coal mining history to its sporting achievements and cultural traditions. Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make the museum an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
One of the museum’s highlights is its collection of artifacts related to George Orwell’s visit to Wigan in 1936. Orwell’s research in Wigan for his seminal work, The Road to Wigan Pier, is well-documented, and the museum offers a fascinating insight into his time in the town and the social conditions he observed.
The Museum of Wigan Life also serves as a valuable resource for researchers and history enthusiasts. The first-floor study area houses an extensive collection of local history materials, including parish registers, census records, and historical documents. The museum’s knowledgeable staff are on hand to assist with research inquiries and provide guidance on accessing the collections.
In addition to its permanent displays, the museum hosts a variety of temporary exhibitions throughout the year, ensuring there is always something new to discover. These exhibitions often draw on the museum’s own collections as well as loans from other institutions, covering a diverse range of topics and themes.
The Museum of Wigan Life is committed to engaging with the local community and providing educational opportunities for all. The museum offers a range of workshops, talks, and events for schools, families, and community groups. These activities are designed to inspire curiosity and foster a deeper understanding of Wigan’s rich heritage.
The museum’s family study area is a popular feature, offering a welcoming space for families to explore history together. Interactive displays, craft activities, and storytelling sessions make learning fun and accessible for younger visitors.
A visit to the Museum of Wigan Life is a journey through the heart and soul of Wigan. From its origins as a public library to its current role as a vibrant museum, the building has always been a hub of knowledge and culture. Whether you are a history buff, a researcher, or simply curious about the town’s past, the Museum of Wigan Life offers a captivating and enriching experience.
As you explore the museum’s exhibits, you will gain a deeper appreciation for Wigan’s unique heritage and the stories of the people who have shaped its history. The Museum of Wigan Life is not just a museum; it is a celebration of the town’s enduring spirit and its place in the wider narrative of Greater Manchester and beyond.
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