Doors reopen at The People’s Story Museum

The People's Story Museum reopens

The People’s Story Museum reopens to the public today (Monday 2 December) after a temporary closure.

The Museum, which offers an insight into the lives of Edinburgh's working-class people from the 18th to the late 20th century, had been closed temporarily due to staff shortages but will now resume its regular opening schedule.

The City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day and Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker visited the museum this morning to meet with staff as final touches were made and doors reopened.

City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cammy Day, said:

The People’s Story is a valuable part of Edinburgh’s cultural heritage. Earlier this year, facing increased budget challenges, the museum was temporarily closed and it was proposed that it would remain so during the autumn and winter months. However, thanks to the incredible support and feedback from the public for the museum, we worked to secure the necessary funding and resources to reopen and to be able to offer this museum to residents and visitors. 

Whether you’ve never visited before or it’s been a while since your last trip, now is the perfect time to rediscover the museum. Explore the exhibits that bring to life the authentic voices of Edinburgh’s people through oral histories and written accounts. Some of the many highlights include displays of Friendly Society regalia, banners, and materials that reflect the city’s rich, diverse communities. We look forward to welcoming you back to experience these powerful stories first-hand.

Culture and Communities Convener Val Walker, said:

I am thrilled that we have now reopened, and I hope visitors take the opportunity to rediscover the rich stories the museum holds.

Now in its 35th year, the museum spans three floors, each showcasing exhibits that reflect the lives of Edinburgh’s residents, from their daily routines to how citizens spend their free time and holidays and how religion and culture have influenced different generations.

And of course there are more stories to tell. Our Museums and Galleries team are always grateful for donations to the collection, and for any ideas for temporary exhibitions. I would urge residents who feel that have a story to tell to get in touch.

Displays include; tableaux, original objects, images and personal stories that reveal a fascinating history of the city. The collection focuses on the history, culture, crafts and trades, and the people of Edinburgh but also as a place to explore more contemporary issues, events and opinions. All of the displays in the museum are based around the words of Edinburgh’s people, taken from oral history reminiscences and written sources to tell real stories. The collections reflect this with objects ranging from Friendly Society regalia, banners and material relating to Edinburgh’s diverse communities.

For more information about the museum or how to get involved in the exhibits email: MuseumsAndGalleries@edinburgh.gov.uk
 
 

Published: December 2nd 2024