Museum X

Inspired by Saidiya Hartman’s concept of *critical fabulation*, we use creativity to fill historical gaps, helping us reimagine more accurate and complete narratives of Black British life and heritage. At Museum X, we believe that archives alone can't fully capture the depth and richness of Black British history. Storytelling, music, and performance bring to life the layers that traditional archives might miss. We're also committed to a trauma-informed approach to archiving, ensuring that Black British histories are handled with the sensitivity they deserve. 📖 **Read our latest blog post:** *"Why Archives Matter: Exploring Black British History Through Archival Preservation"* to explore this further:   🔗 [Read more here](https://lnkd.in/ezsKf7Bd) Our award-winning film,  "To Whom Does This Belong?", showcases this approach. This short documentary, a recipient of a UK Museum Award, was produced through a collaborative effort between Caroline D. of Falmouth University and Ashton John, in partnership with Black Voices Cornwall CIO and the former Cornwall Museums Partnership. 'To Whom Does This Belong?' sheds light on the often-overlooked narratives of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the delicate handling required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits Ashton John #ArchivalPractices #BlackBritishHistory #TraumaInformedCare #CommunityFirst #InclusiveMuseums #InclusiveArchives #MissingNarratives #PowerDynamicsInHistory #CriticalFabulation #Archives

🗺️ HIDDEN LANDMARKS: Uncovering Black Cornish History Join us for an extraordinary afternoon exploring untold stories through the archives at Kresen Kernow Archives 📚 ✨ Featuring: - Exclusive film screening by Black Voices Cornwall CIO - Special performance by acclaimed folk artist Angeline Morrison - Interactive archive exploration - Creative storytelling workshop 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth 📅 Saturday 9th November ⏰ 1pm - 4pm Part of Being Human Festival's 10th anniversary celebrations! We're proud to partner with Black Voices Cornwall CIO and University of Exeter Humanities and Social Sciences, Cornwall, to bring these important local histories to light. ♿️ Fully accessible venue 🎟️ FREE EVENT - Reserve your place via EventBrite https://lnkd.in/erAspfKM #BeingHumanFestival #BeingHuman2024 #BlackVoicesCornwall #UniversityofExeter #ExeterUni #UniofExeter #UofEHass #Exeter #LoveExeter #ExeterUniversity #Cornwall #BlackHistory

At Camborne School of Mines (CSM), a globally renowned mining institution, international students from Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, alongside MP Frank Hayman, demonstrated exceptional leadership by organising a protest march through Camborne, Cornwall. Their cause? Standing in solidarity against the Sharpeville massacre in South Africa, where 69 people were killed and 180 injured during a protest against the apartheid Pass Law. As we discuss diversity, inclusion, and social responsibility in STEM fields today, this historical moment reminds us that: • Technical education has long been intertwined with ethical considerations • International students bring valuable perspectives to their host communities • Leadership in STEM extends beyond technical expertise 🔍 Do you remember this march? Were your parents or grandparents students at CSM during this time? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories—if you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. 📅 The ‘Cornish Connections’ exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday -  9.30am - 4pm The exhibition sheds light on the experiences of African students who came to Cornwall to study mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered. Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits - PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive - Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #CornishHistory #CSM #SocialJustice #MiningHeritage #HiddenHistories #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora   #STEM #AntiApartheidLegacy #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

n 1965, Samuel Kagumba brought his engineering expertise all the way from Kenya to Cornwall. Featured in the spring 1965 issue of 'Contact' magazine (Holman's quarterly publication), Samuel's six-month stay in Cornwall was just one stop on his incredible professional journey. These magazines paint a vibrant picture of a time when Cornwall was a hub for international engineering excellence, connecting people and skills across continents. 🔍 Did your family work at Holman's? Remember any international engineers training there? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories—if you have memories to share DM  Kresen Kernow or email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the film‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. 📅 The ‘Cornish Connections’ exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday - 9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits - From the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive - Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #EastAfricanLegacy#PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

Victor Osadebe made history as the first employee from Holman's Nigerian branch to undertake specialised technical training in Cornwall, UK. His six-month intensive course exemplifies the long-standing commitment to excellence in engineering education and international knowledge transfer. Key aspects of this pioneering programme: Comprehensive technical training leading to full-service engineer qualification Cross-continental skills exchange between Nigeria and the UK Early example of international employee development Building global engineering capabilities through localised expertise In his own words: "My one big impression of England is of the very friendly welcome I have had at Camborne." Victor's story was proudly featured in 'Contact', Holman's quarterly magazine, which kept their global family connected through stories of the latest engineering innovations, staff celebrations and news from branches worldwide. These magazines paint a vibrant picture of a time when Cornwall was a hub for international engineering excellence, connecting people and skills across continents. 🔍 We're gathering more stories like Victor's for the 'Cornish Connections' exhibition. Did your family work at Holman's? Maybe your grandparents remember the Nigerian engineers who came to train? If you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 📅 Exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday - 9.30am - 4pm ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits: From the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive Credits for Camborne School of Mines Association photographs - King Edward Mine Museum Ashton John #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #WestAfricanLegacy #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

In October 1973, Oluyemisi Olubunmi Ojo made history as the first female student at the renowned Cable & Wireless Engineering College, Cornwall. Her journey from Lagos, Nigeria, where she was among the pioneering women in the technical department of the telecommunication station, exemplifies the transformative power of education and determination in breaking gender barriers in STEM fields. Professional Achievements: - First female student at Porthcurno Telecommunications College - Exceptional academic performance, with outstanding examination results - Pioneering technical role at Lagos telecommunication station - Contributed to the diversification of the telecommunications workforce in Nigeria As Oluyemisi noted during her time at the college, "I've got used to being the only girl" – a statement that resonates with many women who have carved paths in male-dominated industries. This breakthrough came at a pivotal time when the Lagos station had only recently begun employing women in technical roles. Oluyemisi's success helped pave the way for future generations of women in telecommunications. Fifty years on, Oluyemisi's impact continues to inspire. As her family recently shared, they remain "incredibly proud of her... 50 years later." Were you or your colleagues part of the telecommunications industry during this era? Did you study or work at Cable & Wireless Mercury House in the 1970s? Your experiences and memories could contribute to our understanding of this transformative period in the industry's history. We’re looking to uncover more untold stories—if you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. The ‘Cornwall Connections’ exhibition sheds light on the experiences of African students who came to Cornwall to study mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered.  📅 ‘Cornwall Connections’ exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday - 9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. Image credits - From the PK Porthcurno archive - Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John Cornwall Museums Partnership #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #WestAfricanLegacy #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

📸 Unearthing Cornwall's Hidden Histories: C. A. Akinro's Story C. A. Akinro was a remarkable figure in Cornwall's rich tapestry of international connections. 🏆 In 1966/67, Akinro captained the football team and showcased his versatility on the hockey pitch. But did you know he also had a royal encounter? During his time in Cornwall, Akinro had the honour of meeting Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. This fascinating story is just one of many that is featured in Kresen Kernow's 'Cornish Connections' exhibition. The exhibition sheds light on the experiences of African students who came to Cornwall to study mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered. 📅 Exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday -  9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 🔍 Do you or someone you know have memories of African students or workers in Cornwall during this time? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories—if you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits - From the PK Porthcurno archive - Credits for Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John Cornwall Museums Partnership #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanH

In 1966/67, E. K. Kokoroko served as President of the African Society Committee at the Camborne School of Mines, helping to create a supportive community for African students studying in Cornwall. The objects of the African Society were:  "To promote stronger relations and better understanding among African students..... [and to] provide a forum whereby African students can be introduced to the English way of life, in an effort to promote good." Among the activities for the year was a Christmas Party on 22nd December 1966, held at the Community Centre, with Mr. and Mrs. Elcoat as guests. Invitations were extended to students of Cable & Wireless Engineering College, Porthcurno and Holman Brothers of Camborne. There were 32 members of the society in 1966. E. K. Kokoroko was also a standout member of the School’s soccer team, earning special recognition in the 1962/63 season for his performance as a goalkeeper. His dedication on and off the field is a testament to the many contributions African students made to Cornish life during this time. 🔍 Do you or someone you know have memories of African students or workers in Cornwall during this time? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories—if you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. We’re excited to highlight stories like E. K. Kokoroko's as part of Kresen Kernow's ‘Cornish Connections’ exhibition, which runs until 11th January 2025. The exhibition sheds light on the experiences of African students who came to Cornwall to study mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered. 📅 Exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, 9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits - From the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive - Credits for Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

Meet Ahmed Islam, a distinguished 27-year-old Technical Watchkeeper from Zanzibar. During his time at the Cable & Wireless Engineering College, Cornwall, Ahmed engaged in an 18-month Wireless Technicians course that not only enriched his academic knowledge but also allowed him to participate in community activities. At the PK Sports Day, Ahmed's commitment to his peers shone through as he received the Chapling Bat for outstanding service to the cricket team. His journey was complemented by his wife, Mrs. Islam, who received a prize in the egg and spoon race - highlighting the vibrant community spirit fostered during their time in Cornwall. 🏏🥚 We are excited to highlight stories like Ahmed's as part of the ‘Cornish Connections’ exhibition at Kresen Kernow running until January. The exhibition sheds light on the experiences of African students who came to Cornwall to study mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered. 📅 Exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, 9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 🔍 Do you or someone you know have memories of African students or workers in Cornwall during this time? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories - if you have memories to share please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film ’To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students who studied in Cornwall from African nations. Your memories and stories could help shape future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits: From the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive Credits for Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter photographs - King Edward Mine Museum Ashton John for Museum X #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #HiddenHistories #InclusiveExhibitions #EastAfricanLegacy #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory

We're excited to highlight Cornwall's unique connection with West African students and workers from the 1940s to the 1970s. The ‘Cornish Connections’ exhibition at Kresen Kernow, running until January, shares some of the often-overlooked stories of African students who came to Cornwall to study engineering, including mining and telecommunications. From sports teams to academic achievements, these students left a remarkable legacy that’s only now being fully uncovered. Explore the fascinating stories of students like Oluyemisi Olubunmi Ojo from Nigeria and Samuel Kagumba from Kenya, whose time in Cornwall helped shape both their futures and the community around them. 📅 Exhibition runs until 11 Jan 2025 📍 Kresen Kernow, Redruth TR15 1AS 🕘 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, 9.30am - 4pm Find out more about this fascinating exhibition here: https://lnkd.in/eqBZ7sX9 🔍 Do you or someone you know have memories of African students or workers in Cornwall during this time? We’re looking to uncover more untold stories - if you have memories to share, please email kresenkernow@cornwall.gov.uk. 🎥 Inspired by the Museum X film, ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, Kresen Kernow is actively seeking more information on six international students from African nations who studied in Cornwall. Your memories and stories could become part of future archival records, ensuring these important narratives are preserved for generations to come. ‘To Whom Does This Belong?’, an award-winning film by Museum X, brings hidden histories to light of Black Cornish history and the enduring legacy of African people in Cornwall. It serves as a poignant example of the care required when engaging with historically sensitive materials. Image credits - From the PK Porthcurno Museum of Global Communications archive - Credits for Camborne School of Mines photographs - King Edward Mine Museum - Ashton John Cornwall Museums Partnership #CornishConnections #KresenKernow #MuseumX #BlackBritishHistory #CornwallArchives #AfricanDiaspora #InclusiveExhibitions #WestAfricanLegacy #HiddenHistories #PanAfricanHeritage #AfricanHeritage #SocialHistory #PublicHistory #EastAfricanLegacy