October 2024 is the 10-year anniversary of Elizabeth Gaskell’s House being opened to the public following its restoration.

To celebrate this milestone a new exhibition has been created using oral history interviews from some of the people involved. From Janet Allan, who led the campaign, to Frank Galvin, the self dubbed ‘House detective’, this new exhibition delves into the personal stories and memories of those who played a part in saving this much loved House.

The story will take you from the near dereliction of the early days and the battles that had to fought to ensure its survival, right up to the beauty of the building and museum today, via servings of cake and life lifelong friendships. It is a true underdog story!

The centrepiece to the exhibition is an anniversary quilt created by textile artist Dr Sarah-Joy Ford who has been inspired by the stories and recollections shared through the project.