The Great Yorkshire Day Out

Wilberforce House Museum Printable Guide

Wilberforce House Museum Printable Guide

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Guide to the Wilberforce House Museum

Wilberforce House Museum, located in Hull, East Yorkshire, is the birthplace of William Wilberforce, the renowned abolitionist who played a pivotal role in the movement to end the transatlantic slave trade in Britain. This guide will help you explore the museum, which is now a heritage site dedicated to his life, achievements, and the history of slavery.

General Information

  • Address: Wilberforce House, 23-25 High St, Hull HU1 1NQ, United Kingdom

  • Opening Hours:

    • Typically open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm (Tuesday to Saturday).

    • Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

    • Always check the website or call ahead for the most current hours and holiday closures.

  • Admission: Free (donations are appreciated to help maintain the museum).

How to Get There

  • By Train: Hull Paragon Interchange is the nearest train station, around a 15-minute walk from the museum.

  • By Bus: There are regular bus services to Hull City Centre. The museum is approximately a 10-minute walk from most bus stops.

  • By Car: There is limited parking on-site, but several public car parks are available nearby.

Exhibitions and Displays

The museum is divided into several galleries and rooms that highlight different aspects of William Wilberforce's life, the abolition movement, and the wider history of slavery. Here are some key sections:

  1. The Life and Achievements of William Wilberforce:

    • Explore the early life of Wilberforce, including his education and political career.

    • Learn about his dedication to the abolitionist cause and his tireless campaigning to end the slave trade.

    • View personal items, letters, and documents that give insight into his character and work.

  2. The Transatlantic Slave Trade:

    • Understand the history and brutality of the slave trade.

    • Interactive exhibits demonstrate the journey of enslaved Africans, from capture to transportation across the Atlantic.

    • Discover the role Hull and other British ports played in this trade.

  3. Abolition Movement:

    • Learn about the efforts of Wilberforce and other abolitionists who worked to end slavery in the British Empire.

    • Discover how the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act of 1807 and the Slavery Abolition Act of 1833 changed history.

    • See artefacts such as campaign posters, petitions, and medals from the abolitionist movement.

  4. Contemporary Slavery:

    • Gain awareness of modern-day slavery and human trafficking, highlighting that the struggle for freedom continues today.

    • The exhibit encourages visitors to reflect on ongoing challenges and what can be done to combat contemporary forms of slavery.

  5. Wilberforce House and Its History:

    • Explore the house itself, an 18th-century building, and understand its architectural and historical significance.

    • The period rooms are furnished to reflect the style of the Georgian era, offering a glimpse into the life of the Wilberforce family.

Highlights and Unique Features

  • Original Georgian Architecture: Appreciate the preserved features of this beautiful house, which dates back to 1660.

  • Audio-Visual Displays: The museum offers engaging multimedia presentations about Wilberforce's life and the history of the abolition movement.

  • Artefacts and Exhibits: Personal belongings of Wilberforce, rare books, pamphlets, and items related to the slave trade offer a tangible connection to history.

Tips for Visiting

  • Plan Your Visit: Allocate at least 1 to 2 hours to explore the museum fully.

  • Guided Tours: Check in advance for guided tours or special talks, which provide deeper insight into the exhibitions.

  • Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and lifts. Assistance dogs are welcome.

  • Photography: Non-flash photography is permitted, but please respect any restrictions in place for certain exhibits.

Educational Resources and Activities

  • Workshops and Learning Sessions: The museum offers educational programs tailored for schools and groups, covering topics related to history, human rights, and social justice.

  • Family Activities: There are interactive activities available for children, such as quizzes and craft sessions, making it a great destination for families.

  • Temporary Exhibitions: The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that cover diverse historical and cultural topics, so check the schedule ahead of your visit.

Museum Shop and Facilities

  • Gift Shop: The shop offers a range of souvenirs, books, and gifts related to Wilberforce, the abolition movement, and Hull’s history.

  • Toilets: Restroom facilities, including accessible toilets, are available on-site.

  • Refreshments: While there isn’t a café in the museum, there are numerous eateries and coffee shops nearby in Hull's Old Town.

Nearby Attractions

  • Hull and East Riding Museum: Explore local archaeology, from the prehistoric period to Roman times.

  • The Streetlife Museum: Just next door, showcasing transport history, including vintage vehicles and carriages.

  • Hull Maritime Museum: Delve into Hull's seafaring history, from fishing to whaling.

Further Information and Contact Details

  • Website: Hull Museums

  • Phone: +44 (0)1482 300 300

  • Email: museums@hullcc.gov.uk

Wilberforce House Museum offers a profound and moving experience, providing insights into one of the most significant human rights movements in history. It’s an essential visit for anyone interested in learning about the life of William Wilberforce, the abolition of slavery, and the ongoing fight for freedom and equality.