Rebels, Radicals, Reform: The Fight for Better

About

The freedom to protest has been a way for people to get their voices heard throughout history. The reasons for protests have been varied, but whatever the reason, it has been the catalyst needed for the growth of freedom and change.

From the Jacobites, Diggers and Peterloo, to the miners strike and recent movements about the environment and racial equality, this exhibition brings to life the many causes the people of our proud borough have campaigned and fought for over the past 600 years, ultimately making it the amazing place it is today.

It features fascinating items from our own collection such as Colonel Eckersley’s sword and scabbard presented to him for his assistance in the Peterloo Riots (1819) and some of our fine collection of political posters, as well as the fabulous The Dinner Hour, Wigan (1874) painted by Eyre Crowe and on loan from Manchester Museum.