Nottingham Industrial Museum launches 40th anniversary exhibition

On 30 March 2017 Nottingham Industrial Museum held a launch party to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the first public steaming of the Basford Beam Engine at Nottingham Industrial Museum on 31 March 1977.

Over 90 volunteers, supporters and friends – old and new – helped the party go with a swing, as everyone acknowledged the fantastic achievements of the Nottingham Arkwright Society, Nottingham City Council and Nottingham Industrial Museum since our pride and joy first returned to action.

The Steam Team kept the Basford Beam Engine operating throughout the night, giving the best performance any party could wish for.

A speech by Mick Carrington, our Finance Director, was warmly received, with thanks and congratulations to all the volunteers who past and present who have made Nottingham Industrial Museum the fantastic museum it is today.

We discussed Thomas Hawksley (of Arnold) with the Mayoress of Gedling and Councillor Barnes and hope to see an article about our lace machines in Vintage Spirit magazine this autumn. We were also able to announce that the Smallprint Company of Derby will be helping us restore our two printing presses to working condition, so we can print our own material and give printing demonstrations.

We were also delighted to be asked for private tours of the museum and to receive countless offers of support. Thank you to volunteers and guests alike for making this a night to remember.