The History Shop

This magnificent Grade II listed building, designed by Alfred Waterhouse in 1878 as a public library for Wigan, is now the hub of Wigan Heritage Services, and the place to come for everyone wishing to discover their own and the borough’s history.

Discover the Wickham Gallery
Here you will find a selection of the borough’s fine art collection together with ‘Wigan On the Map’ a unique exhibition featuring colourful banner maps from every corner of the borough.

Discover the Taylor Gallery
Making the most of this stunning example of Victorian library interiors, the Taylor Galley is home to Wigan’s collection of local books, pamphlets, maps, photographs and newspapers. For those wishing to trace their family tree, the gallery also has a well equipped genealogical study area with Family History workshops available weekly.

The "Founded on Coal" exhibition can also be found in the Taylor Gallery. This permanent exhibition tells the story of our borough in words, pictures, and objects form earliest time to present date.

Throughout the year The History Shop hosts a calendar of exhibitions and events.

Learning at The History Shop
Learning is at the heart of everything we produce at The History Shop and there is plenty to see and do.

For 2008 a new programme of innovative learning workshops have been designed for schools, colleges and community/interest groups.

For further information click on the above links or contact the learning team on 01942 828128.

Exciting developments...
In 2008, work will begin to re-develop the History Shop which has been awarded £500,000 from the Heritage Lottery Fund for a total refurbishment, including a lift, new educational facilities, new exhibitions and state of the art computer and micro-form readers and printers. Wigan Council has matched this sum with £405,000 to be spent restoring and re-roofing this fine historical landmark and listed building. The total scheme is £1.3 million, with contributions of £325,000 from Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust and £100,000 from other sources.

As well greatly enhancing visitor experience, the grant will allow the Heritage Service to develop the History Shop as a hub for heritage in the borough and enable us to work more closely with all our local communities.

Opening Times
Monday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Tuesday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Wednesday Closed
Thursday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Friday 10.00am - 4.00pm
Saturday 10.00am - 1.00pm

Contacts
The History Shop, Library Street, Wigan
Tel: 01942 828128
E-mail: heritage@wlct.org

Image: The History Shop (Internal)
The History Shop

Image: Heritage Stationery
Heritage Memorabilia

Image: Activities at The History Shop
Activities at The History Shop