Origins of Manchester's science museum inspire University History Prize winner
01 Feb 2017
PhD student Erin Beeston, from the Centre for the History of Science, Technology and Medicine, has won the 2016 University History Prize competition
Erin's essay, “A science museum ‘to rival South Kensington’: curating the ‘university city’ and establishing the North Western Museum of Science and Industry”, was inspired by material she came across in the University archives and focused on the role of academics in defending industrial heritage.
She said, “I was very interested to find real passion for the heritage of the city and region. In records from the 1950s, academics like Dr Mays of the Philosophy Department and Professor Matheson of the Engineering Department lobbied for a museum of industry.”
Erin is delighted with her win: “I was very pleased that my research contributed to the story of our institution, especially as it includes the lesser known history of UMIST and the North Western Museum of Science and Industry.” Her tip for entrants in this year’s competition is: “Consider what you find fascinating about your topic and present original research about the University.”
The 2017 prize is now open to undergraduate and postgraduate students at The University of Manchester. Entries can be either creative or academic work related to the University’s history.
For more information and the application form, visit:
The closing date is Friday, 28 April 2017. First prize is £350 and second prize £150.
You can find out more about the University’s history and heritage on a free tour: