‘Bennerley Viaduct, the Iron Giant of the Erewash Valley’ is a pop up exhibition from the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct and charts its incredible history, from the Victorian railway boom, through dereliction, to walking and cycling destination. Learn more about the people and society that created it and the lasting impact it has on the communities Lawrence would have known well.
Alongside the exhibition, there will be a programme of workshops and guided walks, bringing together Lawrence, creative writing, and visits to the viaduct as it is today.
Rebecca Morris-Buck, Project Manager for the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct said:
“We are so thrilled that our support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund is enabling us to work in partnership with the D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum for this exhibition. Bennerley Viaduct is a landmark in Lawrence Country: when you stand on the viaduct, you have a clear view of Eastwood in its landscape. As we develop our site as a visitor attraction, and walking and cycling destination, we’re delighted to celebrate its connections to a world-famous writer, and to reflect on what life in the local area was like when the viaduct was in use. We hope Lawrence would’ve approved of our planned walks and creative writing activities.”
Carolyn Melbourne, Museum and Collections Officer at the museum said:
“Bennerley Viaduct is a monument of Victorian engineering and this exhibition really brings to life the times in which Lawrence was living. Improvement works at the site are one of a number of projects being undertaken as part of Kimberley’s successful £16.5m levelling up bid so it’s also a great time to learn more about the history of this iconic landmark as we look ahead to its future.”
The exhibition is open at the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, on Victoria Street, Eastwood from 8 June to 22 July. Visit www.broxtowe.gov.uk/dhlawrencemuseum for more details and opening times.
You can also find out more about the work of the Friends of Bennerley Viaduct at: www.bennerleyviaduct.org.uk (Opens in a new window).
The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where this literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the Museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.
Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, feel the warmth of the fire in the kitchen and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.
Find out more at www.broxtowe.gov.uk/dhlawrencemuseum (Opens in a new window).
Posted on 16 May 2023
