Museums And Archives

Gressenhall 250: More than a Workhouse

Gressenhall Farm and Workhouse will mark the hugely significant 250th anniversary of its iconic building by uncovering new stories about its role beyond the better-known workhouse era. Building on the enormously successful ‘Voices from the Workhouse’ redevelopment (2016), we will work with volunteers to explore the early and later periods of the site’s past, creating new exhibitions and updating interpretation. By reaching out into the community, we will seize on the closing window of opportunity to preserve living-memory testimonials about the building’s post-workhouse role (1948-1975) and draw out important stories relating to housing homeless families and caring for elderly residents. This project will harness the excitement of a significant anniversary to reach new audiences through targeted outreach and projects which highlight the wider 250-year history. A new digital animation designed by young people will give an engaging overview, while high-quality heritage theatre performances and events will mark the celebration.