First World War Open Day
Wed 10th September 2014
Residents who want to find out more about the East Riding during the First World War are invited to come along to the Heritage Open Day at the Treasure House, Beverley, this Saturday (13 September) from 9am-4pm.
Members of the public will be able to go behind the scenes of the East Riding Archives and delve into hundreds of local archives and heritage documents.
This free event is running as part of the national programme of Heritage Open Days, celebrating England’s fantastic culture and architecture with special access to buildings and activities.
The theme for this year’s event is the First World War - the archives staff have chosen documents and archives from the thousands held at the Treasure House which tell the story of the First World War and the East Riding. Some real treasures from the collections will be on display – archives and books which allow a glimpse into the world of 100 years ago.
Lizzy Baker, archivist at the Treasure House, said: “It will be a great chance to find out more about the First World War by handling objects from the period and making a model gas mask, and your own National Registration Identity card. To commemorate the experiences of East Yorkshire soldiers who fought in the Middle East, there will also be a children’s camel train around the research room – and prizes for anyone who can decrypt the puzzle. (Children must be accompanied by an adult).
“Also, if the current BBC series of Who Do You Think You Are has got you inspired to trace your family history, then the archives staff will be available to help you get started. There will also be activities for children and families.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to visit and learn more about the East Riding in 1914.”
Visitors will also have a rare opportunity to take a guided tour of the archives, experiencing the environmentally controlled strongrooms not normally open to the public. Demonstrations in the conservation workshop will show how books and documents are repaired.
The Treasure House and Beverley Art Gallery, Coffee Lounge and Beverley Library will also be open on the day.
