University taster day to explore Wrexham’s cultural heritage and history

An exhibition that brought a host of historic treasures to Victorian Wrexham is just one of the fascinating subjects that will be explored in a local history event this week.

A watch that King Charles I had when he was taken to the gallows and rosary beads once owned by Mary Queen of Scots were among the artefacts viewed by people from across the UK at the exhibition in the town in 1876.

A taster day tomorrow (Wednesday 7th August) will examine the three-month exhibition at Argyle Street, among other topics, to give prospective students an insight into Glyndŵr’s history programme.

The year of the exhibition was a significant one in Wrexham’s history, with the formation of the Football Association of Wales at the Wynnstay Hotel, the introduction of trams and the opening of the first non-denominational cemetery in Ruabon Road.

The great and good of North Wales society, including William Gladstone and the Duke of Westminster, joined a host of people from across Britain to view historic treasures of both worldwide and Welsh importance.

Newspapers of the time hailed the exhibition a success, with the streets full of people and a fete-like atmosphere for the grand opening – as well as a boost to town trade.

Lecturer Peter Bolton drew parallels between the exhibition and events in modern day Wrexham with projects like Tŷ Pawb and the proposed national football museum.

He said: “There’s quite a correlation between what’s going on in Wrexham at the moment and what was happening in the 19th century.

“It’s interesting because at that time there were plenty of people who were up for it but there were also plenty of people who were saying ‘why are they having an art exhibition in Wrexham?’.

“It’s quite a nice contrast with what’s going on today as well as seeing some of the continuities.

“There were quite a lot of things going on in 1876, quite a lot of well-to-do people in and around the area who were interested in promoting the town – as well as promoting their own interests of course.”

There will also be a chance to attend sessions on the reign of Elizabeth I and 19th century crime and punishment, to be delivered by Dr Kathryn Ellis.

More information about the History Taster Day and how to book a place can be found here.