Local History Month 2025
Save the date and join Heritage Doncaster for a month filled with history!
We have a month of lots of different events planned across City of Doncaster Archives and Danum Gallery, Library and Museum this May!
Introduction to Archival Collections
City of Doncaster Archives | Friday 2 May, 10.30am – 12pm | Free, booking required
Have you ever thought about doing historical research but wouldn’t know where to start? Book on to our informal session with our friendly and knowledgeable staff to learn about the collections held by City of Doncaster Archives and the types of research they can be used for. Please note that this is an introduction only and personal research cannot be undertaken on the day.
You can book your place today!
Curator Talk: Groats, Pennies and Farthings
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Saturday 3 May, 11am – 12.15pm | £5
This talk will examine three Medieval coin hoards, recently found by responsible metal detectorists, reported as Treasure and acquired through the Treasure process by Heritage Doncaster. The talk will examine what these coin hoards can contribute to our understanding of medieval society in the borough, and how medieval coins were used by its inhabitants.
You can book your ticket over on our website..
Chocs Away! Doncaster’s First Airshow
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Wednesday 7 May, 1pm – 1.30pm | Free, no booking required
The first air show in England took place at Doncaster Racecourse in 1909. Come and find out more about this little-known event.
Local History Month Open Day
City of Doncaster Archives | Saturday 10 May, 10am – 4pm | Free
Come along and discover Doncaster’s local history. This multipurpose building houses the City of Doncaster Archives and Local Studies collections and research space, King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Research and Collections Centre, and the vast collection of the Doncaster Grammar School Railway Collection. There will be an exhibition of Second World War related documents from the archives in the reading room and foyer. In the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Research and Collections Centre explore medals awarded across 200 years of the regiment’s history, with tours focussing on Second World War medals. Please note that this is a special event and personal research cannot be undertaken on the day.
You can book your place over on our website.
King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry Research and Collections Centre Open Day
City of Doncaster Archives | Wednesday 14 May, 10am – 4pm | Free, no booking required
Discover the amazing collections of the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry. Explore medals awarded across 200 years of the regiment’s history and find out more about the fascinating lives of soldiers they belong to. Get hands-on with original documents and photographs that tell Yorkshire’s military history.
Introduction to Family History Part Two
City of Doncaster Archives | Friday 16 May, 10am – 1pm | Free, booking required
If you’ve recently begun tracing your family history and you’re unsure what’s available online, book in for this hands on workshop where you will be guided by expert staff on how to search genealogical websites and what information you might be able to find. Please note that this is an introduction only and personal research cannot be undertaken on the day.
You can book your place on our website.
Researching First World War Prisoners of War Workshop
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Saturday 17 May, 10.30am – 12.30pm | Free, booking required
Find out more about the First World War Prisoners of War records available online and how to use them to research your Prisoner of War ancestors.
You can book your place on our website..
Tracing your Army Ancestry
City of Doncaster Archives | Tuesday 20 May, 10am – 4pm | Free, booking required
Not sure where to start with researching your army ancestors? Hitting a brick wall with your research? Book a 30-minute appointment with our military history curator. Slots available between 10am and 3.30pm.
Mansion House Open Day 2025
Mansion House | Friday 23 May, 10am - 2pm | Free, no booking required
Discover Doncaster’s elegant Mansion House. The Friends of Doncaster Mansion House will be leading tours around the building. The open days are free, but donations are welcome.
Unfortunately, due to maintenance the lift is not available at the Mansion House. If you have any further questions about access please email heritage@doncaster.gov.uk.
Rail Talks: Ships & Trains
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Tuesday 27 May, 1pm – 1.30pm | Free, no booking required
Doncaster Grammar School Railway Collection Trustee Simon Ward delves into the history of railway companies owning and operating ships with reference to objects displayed in the Rail Heritage Centre.
Lunchtime Spotlight: Helen of Balby: a woman of means in 12th-century Doncaster
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Wednesday 28 May, 1pm – 1.30pm | Free, no booking required
The eleven lines of text that make up one of the oldest documents at Doncaster Archives may shed light on some features of town life around 1200, but they also raise several intriguing questions.
Caring for Your History Workshop
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum | Saturday 31 May, 10.30am – 1pm | £10
Join conservator Graham Key for a hands-on workshop exploring how you can care for historic collections in your home. Using examples from the King’s Own Yorkshire Light Infantry collection, find out how to safely handle and conserve historic uniforms, medals, papers and photographs. Booking required.
You can book your ticket on our website..
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