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Monthly Roundup 16th December 2024 to 19th January 2025 graphic, which includes three photos of Sir James in the snow, some festive decorations and The Devil's Porridge Museum from outside.

Monthly Roundup 15th December 2024 to 19th January 2025

By News

Welcome to our first Monthly Roundup of 2025! It may have been a quiet (and very cold) start to the year, but there’s lots to look forward to in 2025 at The Devil’s Porridge Museum.

To start we would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year!

Below is a snowy photo of Sir James (taken in a previous year). Luckily, we’ve not this much snow at The Devil’s Porridge Museum to start 2025.

World War One Fireless Locomotive Sir James in the snow.

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Monday 6th January 2025

It was exiting to re-open today after a short break for the festive season! If you fancy visiting us this year, why not take a look at our opening hours and prices by clicking here>

Did you know that today also the day were World War Two factory ICI Powfoot, employed it’s first 10 employees. Be sure to look out for information about ICI Powfoot

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Thursday 16th January 2025

We were delighted to welcome our first group of the year to The Devil’s Porridge Museum. A huge thank you to them for joining us!

As always you can read more about group visits here>

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There’s lots more exciting events to come this year!

  1. The Devil’s Porridge Museum’s Crafted in Conflict exhibition all about trench art will be at The Devil’s Porridge Museum until 28th February 2025. Read more about our current exhibition here>
  2. Our Cordite Club are returning on Monday 20th January 2025. You can read more about Cordite Club by clicking here>
  3. The Devil’s Porridge Museum’s Youth Council will be holding it’s first meeting on Tuesday 21st January 2025.
  4. Burns Supper will be held on 24th January 2025 at The Devil’s Porridge Museum this year. Enjoy a three course meal with haggis, Highland dancing and more! Read more about Burn’s Night 2025 by clicking here>
  5. We are proud to have partnered with Rail Sidings Limited to offer a new Shunt Locomotive Driver Experience Day starting every Thursday from 6th February 2025. It’s perfect for railway enthusiasts! Learn more about our Shunt Locomotive Driver Experience Day by clicking here>
  6. Our weekly Arts and Crafts club for young people will be returning in February 2025.
  7. We’re still offering young people the opportunity to get involved in our Museum Mentorship Programme. This programme will help young people gain hands on experience with support and guidance from an experienced mentor. Learn more about our Museum Mentorship Programme by clicking here>
  8. 2025 will see the return of many of our popular events and plenty of new ones too! Why not follow us on Facebook to keep up to date with what will be happening at The Devil’s Porridge Museum. Find The Devil’s Porridge Museum on Facebook here>

 

And that’s the end of our first Monthly Roundup of 2025! We’ll see you next time and in the meantime you can always catch up on last month’s  Monthly Roundup by clicking here>

Front cover of Springside book, by Jeannie Rothwell. It features an illustration of a house.

Springside: A Story of Love, Loss, and Family During the Great War

By News

Springside, a captivating novel by Jeannie Rothwell, is a historical narrative set against the backdrop of World War I. Drawing from real-life events and family history, Rothwell’s work delves into the personal struggles and emotional depth of the Brooks family, as they navigate the tumultuous realities of wartime Britain.

Inspired by Rothwell’s grandfather, James Dugdale Rothwell, who worked as a shift chemist at Dornock during the war, and the diaries of Geoffrey Higson, a chemist at H.M. Factory Gretna, Springside presents a vivid portrayal of the impact of the war on the home front. The novel intricately weaves together personal experiences with historical events, offering a profound exploration of love, loss, and survival.

James Dugdale Rothwell and Sarah Ethel Wright

The story follows Emily, the matriarch of the Brooks family, and Arthur, the manager of a dye works, as they face the challenges of supporting their loved ones during a time of great uncertainty. Rothwell’s meticulous research provides an authentic historical context. Through their eyes, readers experience the emotional weight of wartime sacrifice, the strain of separation, and the hope that endures even in the darkest times. What sets Springside apart is the way Rothwell humanizes history.

The novel is not just a recounting of events but a deeply personal story that connects readers with the personal journey of its characters. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit, illustrating the ways in which love and family can endure even amid the devastation of war.

Jeannie Rothwell presented her captivating novel Springside at The Devil’s Porridge Museum

As Springside explores themes of resilience and survival, it also shines a light on the lesser-known aspects of the Great War, highlighting the roles of ordinary people who faced extraordinary circumstances. The research that went into crafting the narrative is evident, as Rothwell brings the period to life with rich detail and a deep understanding of the historical context. Springside is more than just a novel—it’s an emotional journey that transports readers to a time of unimaginable hardship, while also offering a poignant reminder of the enduring power of family and love. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of compelling storytelling, or someone seeking an emotionally enriching read, Springside is a book that will leave a lasting impression.

Don’t miss the chance to own a copy of this remarkable novel, which will be available for purchase at The Devil’s Porridge Museum shop starting mid-January. Springside promises to captivate and move readers, making it a must-have addition to any book collection.

Youth Empowerment Programme

By News

We are excited to announce that we have secured funding from The National Lottery Community Fund, Young Start, for our exciting mentorship programme.

 

Empower Your Future with Our Youth Empowerment Volunteer Program

Take charge of your future with our Youth Empowerment Volunteer Program! If you’re 16-24 and eager to build confidence, develop leadership skills, and make a positive impact, this program is for you. With hands-on workshops, supportive mentors, and exciting projects, we’ll help you reach your goals.

How to Apply: To get started is easy and informal:

  • Drop Us a Message: Please send us a quick note to education@devilsporridge.org.uk with your name and why you’re interested. There is no need for anything formal!
  • Explore the Role Profiles: Check out the attached profiles to see what excites you. Whether you’re into hospitality, customer-facing roles, behind-the-scenes curatorial work, research, databases, or community-focused roles like event management and education workshops, there’s something here for you. Tell us what interests you!
  • Come In for a Chat: We’d love to meet you in person! Come by for a relaxed chat so we can get to know you better and find the roles that match your interests 

And that’s it—no long forms or essays—just a friendly conversation to see how we can help you on your journey.

 

Cafe Volunteer Role Profile

Curatorial Volunteer Role Profile

Front of House Volunteer Role Profile

Youth and Community Volunteer role profile

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