Culture And Memory

We Were Always Here: The hidden LGBTQIA+ social history of Wiltshire

“We Were Always Here” will uncover and celebrate Wiltshire’s LGBTQIA+ history from the early 19th century to the legalisation of same-sex marriage in 2014. Our vision is to ensure that, within the context of national attitudes and legislation, the lived experiences of ‘ordinary’ LGBTQIA+ people are recorded, valued, and accessible for generations to come. The project will deliver three key outputs that complement one another, creating a rich, accessible network of heritage materials: - A concise, illustrated history book (distributed free to Wiltshire schools, museums, and libraries) - A portable, adaptable exhibition with a permanent home at The Pride Hub, Swindon, and touring venues across the county - A permanent online resource All research materials will form Wiltshire’s first dedicated LGBTQIA+ heritage archive, housed at Wiltshire & Swindon History Centre and Swindon Local Studies Library, creating a lasting legacy for the community and wider public.