Pen Room Museum
During the 19th Century, 75% of everything written in the world was with a ‘Birmingham’ pen. Birmingham was at the forefront of this trade until it declined in the 1950’s with the invention of the biro and fountain pen. At one time there were about 100 factories in the Jewellery Quarter area. The development of the steel pen reduced the cost of writing and enabled the spread of literacy throughout the world.
Set in the atmosphere of a former Victorian pen factory, the Pen Room Museum is dedicated to preserving and promoting the legacy of this trade. There is ongoing research into the social, historical and technical aspects of the trade and also the Jewellery Quarter itself. The museum has assisted people tracing their genealogy and is keen to hear from anybody who has had connections with the trade.
The Pen Room is more than just a passive museum with objects on display. It is a hands on collection! Visitors can try writing with a variety of different implements including quills and typewriters; you can also try writing in Braille or make your own pen nib using original machinery.
The Pen Room has a range of educational activities that covers both formal and informal learning. The collection can be used to support a variety of curricular subjects including literacy, local history and citizenship. Calligraphy Classes are held at the Pen Room on Saturday mornings from 10am – 11.30am.
The Museum is keen to form partnerships with community groups to encourage participation in various cultural activities. For more information please use the contact details below or visit the Pen Room website http://www.penroom.co.uk
Opening Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 11am – 4.00pm
Sunday: 1.00pm – 4.00pm
Address:
Pen Room Museum & Learning Centre
Unit 3, The Argent Centre
60 Frederick Street
Hockley
Birmingham
B1 3HS
Main contact: Malcolm Caston
Tel: 0121 236 9834
Email: pentalk@penroom.freeserve.co.uk
