About
Join the National Coal Mining Museum for a series of spotlight talks about their fascinating collections. Take a closer look at some of the stunning collections and find out more about the team care for them.
Please book your place early, as places are limited for each talk.
Agricola’s De Re Metallica – The Book of Mining (13 February & 13 March)
Join the Librarian for a ‘behind the scenes’ talk about the jewel in the crown of the Library collection, Georgius Agricola’s De Re Metallica. This amazing first edition which is adorned by intricate woodcut illustrations was published in 1556. Not only has it been used in the mining industry it is also a wonderful primary source of its time.
Please meet at the Library for this talk. Book early as spaces are limited.
From Coal Queens to Comedy Kings: The Sculptures of Graham Ibbeson (23 January, 20 February & 20 March)
Get cosy with a cuppa and join Alison Cooper, Collections Engagement Manager (Exhibitions & Digital) in the Café to discover more about the illustrious fifty year career of People’s Sculptor, Graham Ibbeson MBE.
Graham’s exhibition From Coal Queens to Comedy Kings: The Sculptures of Graham Ibbeson, MBE is currently on display across the museum site until 7 September 2025.
Please meet at the Café for this talk.
Looking After Our Collections (6 February, 6 March & 3 April)
Join the Collections team in the Power House to hear about how they care for the collections at the Museum. Learn how temperature, humidity and light can affect objects and also how they need to keep an eye on what insects are getting into the stores. There will also be a chance to see some of the large conservation projects that have been undertaken at the Museum.
Please meet at Reception for this talk. The group will then walk up to the Power House. If you require the shuttle buggy to get to the Power House, please meet in Reception at 10:45am.
Treasures of the Library (30 January, 27 February & 27 March)
Join the Museum’s Librarian and discover the resources in the library which could help you with your general family history or mining history research. Researchers travel from around the UK and even further afield to access this amazing resource.
Please meet at the Library for this talk. Book early as spaces are limited.
Venue opening hours
Monday : Closed
Tuesday : Closed
Wednesday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Thursday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Friday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Saturday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
Sunday : 9:45 am - 5:00 pm
- Accessible Car Parking
- Accessible Toilet
- Baby Changing Facilities
- Dementia Friendly
- Guide Dogs Welcome
- Wheelchair Accessible
Access facilities
Book your tickets
Meet the Curator – Spotlight Talks
Venue Details
Find us at
New Road, Wakefield, WF4 4RH
Phone
01924848806
info@ncm.org.uk