Lancaster museum shortlisted for prestigious award
Historian and broadcaster David Olusoga OBE has launched a major new public award inviting the nation to vote for their favourite hidden heritage gems across the country.
Created by a partnership between Heritage Open Days and UK family history website, Findmypast, the ‘Everyday History Heroes’ award celebrates the historic and cultural sites that champion the stories of ordinary people - from nurses and miners to teachers, soldiers and changemakers.
The award centres on the grassroots histories that often go untold: the communities who powered industries, stood up for their beliefs, and built modern Britain.
The North West boasts three of the shortlisters selected for the public vote with Lancaster’s Cottage Museum, St Peter’s Church in Stockport and the Pankhurst Museum in Manchester selected by a judging panel after England’s historical organisations were invited to put forward their bids for entry last month.
The Cottage has been recognised for sharing the story of the working-class people who have lived at 15 Castle Hill, beginning with Richard and Anne Thompson in 1739.
Through hands-on displays, domestic objects and carefully researched interpretation, the museum explores the textures of everyday life: work, home, family, trade, aspiration and the wider forces shaping Lancaster in the 18th Century.
Councillor Sam Riches, Lancaster City Council’s cabinet member for museums, said: “The Cottage Museum is a wonderful example of how the stories of ordinary people can help us better understand our shared history. It may be small in size, but it offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the generations who lived and worked in our district, bringing their experiences
to life for visitors today.
"We’re delighted to have been recognised in this way and shortlisted alongside so many inspiring heritage sites.”
David Olusoga said: “History isn’t just about the famous names we learn in school - it’s about millions of ordinary people whose actions shaped the world we live in today. We want to celebrate the amazingly diverse heritage and cultural sites that help us connect with people of the past, and understand how families and communities like our own lived, worked, and made their mark.
"I encourage everyone to explore the shortlist, discover a hidden gem near you, and cast your vote.”
A total of 24 sites and teams have been shortlisted across England. The shortlisters feature a diverse mix of hidden gems and each represents a unique or unexpected interpretation of everyday history, rooted in local communities and heritage.
The public is now invited to vote for their favourite site, helping to crown England’s first-ever Everyday History Heroes.
Voting is open until August 31, with a national winner and seven regional winners to be announced on September 10.