Uncovering the past at artefacts day

As part of Lurgan 400 celebrations the council’s Museums service, Craigavon Historical Society and Lurgan Forward are running ‘Lurgan 400 Artefacts Day’ on Saturday, April 24 from 10am to 4pm in Lurgan Town Hall.

It gives member of the public a chance to bring their Lurgan artefacts out for show and have their treasures valued by a professional auctioneer from Belfast Auctions.

The event is designed to establish what interesting artefacts are available for use along with other various collections for a forthcoming exhibition in the autumn.

The exhibition will reflect the development of the town over 400 years. The success and growth of Lurgan as an important provincial market town will be reflected in the exhibition which will be dependent on the success of the artefacts day.

Elaine Hill from Craigavon Museum Services explained: “Lurgan has a rich history and heritage spanning four centuries and there are many photographs and artefacts which have been collected over the years which reflect the development of the town.

“We want people to come along to show and tell us the stories behind the items they have kept over the years, whether these are old newspapers, photographs, maps or historic objects."

A spokesperson for Lurgan Forward added: “We’re also trying for the AE Russell collection for the autumn exhibition which will be great if we secure it. There’s a wealth of information out there and Stephen Russell, Director of Belfast Auction House, has agreed to come along and value some of the artefacts from 1pm to 4pm on the Saturday if required."

As well as enjoying the museum’s extensive collection of Lurgan artefacts people can ask members of Craigavon Historical Society and museum staff any questions they have about the history of the town.

Please note that items will be recorded to compile an archive on the day and all items will be returned to their owners immediately.

For further information please contact Craigavon Museum Services on 3834 1635.