Free Family Fun Day to Celebrate Re-Launch of Nottinghamshire Museum

On Saturday 26 July the Framework Knitters Museum, Ruddington, is celebrating the launch of the first stage of the redevelopment of the museum made possible by the Heritage Lottery Fund, and the opening of two brand-new exhibitions – including the UK’s first gallery entirely dedicated to the Luddite revolt. To mark the occasion they are holding a free family fun day at the museum on Chapel Street, which will run from 11:00 am to 4:30 pm, with last admission at 4:00 pm.

Visitors will be able to experience what life was like for the Framework Knitters of Nottinghamshire as they explore the historic site. As part of the redevelopment of the museum, special effects have been added to bring the museum to life for the visitor, and a new sense of drama and interaction will mean they will get to experience the site in a completely unique way. In addition visitors will be able to see a framework knitter in action, and will even get to make their own knitted souvenir on our historic sock making machines.

The two new galleries will enable visitors to find out how the historic industry is intrinsic to, not just the county’s heritage, but issues that still affect people across the world.  The new Luddite gallery will tell the story of the Luddite revolt, which started in Nottingham before spreading across the country, and examine the conditions that surrounded the uprising. While the new Machine Room will chart the development of the industry, explore the birth of lace, and encourage the ongoing debate about the production of cheap clothing.

“Finally the region has an exhibition dedicated to the Luddite uprising. It was a national revolt, yet it started here in Nottingham, so we feel it is really important that it is commemorated,” said Paul Baker, Museum Manager. “We’re really excited about the changes to the museum and we can’t wait to welcome visitors to see our improvements. We set out to make our historic spaces more dramatic and interactive, and I’m sure our visitors will have never seen anything quite like it before.”

To add to the celebrations on the family fun day actors, musicians, and street performers, will be performing throughout the day. Light refreshments will be available from the tea room, and the museum shop, which sells locally-made textile gifts, will be open.

The museum, including the two new galleries, is open Wednesday to Sunday. For opening hours, and for more information, visit www.frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk