Start in 1712
Our storytelling covers 250 years so why not do it in order?
This trail will guide you through it: from the Industrial Revolution all the way through to the hustle and bustle of the 1960s.
1. Newcomen Engine (1712)
In 1712, Thomas Newcomen (1663-1729) invented the world’s first successful steam engine in which mechanical work was achieved by a piston moving in a cylinder.
It was known to have been put to work in the Black Country and proved an effective way of pumping water out of ever deeper coal mines.
While nothing remains of the original engine, the Museum’s replica is full sized and tells the story of an invention that changed the course of world history.
2. Providence Chapel (1837)
Providence Church, originally from Darby Hand near Netherton, played a vital role in the 19th century to the mining and nail-making community.
Opened in 1837, it served as a hub for worship, education, and welfare, even hosting a medical club for local workers. Step inside to appreciate its history, modest architecture, and its connection to the community.
3. The Penfold Letter Box (1865)
Letter boxes arrived on our streets in the 1850s. The contract for making the first national standard design in 1859 was awarded to Cochrane & Co of Dudley.
Over a hundred of these distinctive hexagonal boxes survive. There were five different types and three sizes. This example is the largest size of the most common fourth type, which has the aperture placed below the Royal coat of arms and a moulded surround to the collection plate.
4. Pitt’s Cottage (1890)
Pitt’s Cottage, believed to date back to the 1890s, is an example of a self-built home constructed using second-hand materials. Originally located in Bilston near the former Caponfield Iron Works, it reflects the resourcefulness of working-class families.
The interior is modest, without gas lighting or running water, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of its early occupants, Samuel and Nancy Pitt. Rebuilt brick-by-brick at the Museum, it stands as a testament to self-reliance in housing during this era.
5. The Hardware & Ironmonger’s (1930)
The Hardware Shop is a translocated building from 34 Pipers Row, Wolverhampton, dating to the early 19th century. It showcases the bustling atmosphere of 1920s and 1930s hardware stores, where customers could find everything from galvanised buckets to cast iron cooking pots.
Visitors can explore a space packed with household essentials that reflect the era. Don’t forget to ask the shopkeeper about the most curious objects in the shop – you might be surprised!
6. H. Morrall’s Gentlemen’s Outfitters (1935)
Experience a refined 1930s shopping atmosphere. This building, translocated to the Museum, showcases the elegance of a high end gentlemen’s outfitter, offering quality ties, hats, gloves, and more.
With its electrical lighting, tailored fitting room, and stylish displays, Morrall’s reflects a time when clothing was aspirational and bespoke services were valued. Be sure to ask the shopkeeper about the suits on display!
7. Halesowen and Hasbury Co-op (1949)
Experience shopping in post-war Britain. Look products on the shelves and see how much you could buy with rationing.
Located originally on Stourbridge Road, this recreated building showcases post-war rationing, the Co-op dividend system and the rise of self-service shopping. Products, packaging and the shop layout highlight changes in shopping habits and customer service during the post-war period.
Fun fact: Chocolate was so popular it was put back on rationing!
8. Cricket Field Brickworks (1955)
Brickworks were a key industry across the whole Black Country throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. By the mid-20th century, brickworks could claim to be the only major industry in the Black Country still rooted to its raw material, given the decline in iron and coal mining.
Cricket Field Brickworks manufactured bricks of all kinds, including firebricks and fireclay goods. The Museum’s recreation tells the story of women in brickmaking; brickmaking in the Black Country has long been a mainstay of female labour.
9. Cast Iron House (1968)
Meet the Aston family and explore their home full of modern comforts, complete with vibrant décor and football memorabilia.
Have a mooch through their kitchen, bedrooms and living room filled with nostalgic brands and objects. Does anything look familiar to you?