On this day in history... January 1966
For the first of our series of 'On this day in history' blogs to comemorate 150 years of the World Museum, we are looking to the memories of ex-staff member, (former Keeper) Eric Greenwood. Here he recalls an important time in the museum's history after the destruction of the Second World War, when the museum was able to return to displaying treasured artefacts and hosting evening events...
The steps up to the old entrance to the museum.
I joined the staff of the then 'City of Liverpool Museums' on 1 January 1966. At that time only a temporary display in the Lower Horseshoe Gallery was open to the public.
In the following years the newly built 'phase two block' - situated behind the steps at the front of the museum in William Brown Street - was opened in stages. This was an exciting time as curators and public alike saw the museum's treasures for the first time since the beginning of the second world war, 30 years earlier.
It also meant many late evenings as local societies returned to the museum for their regular meetings and other private views were held. It was an enjoyable and relaxed time made more memorable by the staff who remained behind for evening functions. They often had a 'feast' in the staff room prior to the evening events! For me the most extraordinary exhibition was the display for a few days of a small amount of moon dust exhibited on a watch glass. The idea of seeing a bit of the moon for themselves caught the imagination of the people of Liverpool and queues to visit the display stretched all the way up William Brown Street to Commutation Row and beyond.
If you have any memories you'd like to share about interesting events or exhibitions you have enjoyed at the museum, then leave a comment below. If you have a specific date you can remember, then all the better!