Sons and Scrubbers: Lawrence legacy undergoes annual Deep Clean

Curious Lawrence fans will be able get hands-on experience with historic items from the museum’s extensive collection – including items not always displayed in the exhibitions.

During the sessions, visitors will be able to see first-hand the hard work from museum staff and volunteers that goes into preserving the Lawrence collection every year and the importance of its conservation. Attendees may even learn a technique or two in how to protect their own treasures at home.

Two sessions are available to book on Saturday 17 January, 10:30am and 1:30pm, each lasting one hour. Tickets cost £10 each, spots are limited, book your place here (Opens in a new window).

Taking place annually, the museum’s Deep Clean ensures the collection is kept spick and span. This year saw the return of an unusual item to Lawrence’s birthplace – the scissors used to cut the author’s umbilical cord!

Belonging to the local midwife Mrs. Bower, who had 19 children of her own, the scissors conveniently come apart for hygienic cleaning – and now handily for the museum Deep Clean.

Museum and Collections Officer, Carolyn Melbourne, said, “During the deep-clean we get to have a close look at museum objects: as well as cleaning them we investigate for signs of deterioration and factors that may cause them damage, including museum pests.

The Conservation Tours will give people an insight into what we look for, be that foxing on paper or Booklice.”

Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure, Councillor Teresa Cullen, says, “This is a fantastic opportunity for people to gain an insight into just how much hard work from museum staff and incredible volunteers goes into maintaining the Lawrence collection, which is so culturally significant.

“It’s also a great chance to have hands-on experience with rare and unique items, one that will be hard to come by elsewhere.”

The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where this literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.

Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.

Find out more about what’s on and plan your visit on the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum webpage.