You are invited to Meet the Harveys

Experience Barnsley will be revealing more about one of the town’s most influential and generous families at their new exhibition, Meet the Harveys.

On display from Wednesday, 3 February until Wednesday, 20 April will be a history of the family, along with highlights from their stunning collection of artworks.  These include old masters by artists such as Canaletto and Hogarth, gifted to the people of the borough.

It charts their rise in society, business and wealth and how they created a name in both the linen industry and around the town in the 19th century.

Dedicating their success to Barnsley, the family began a mission of philanthropy as a way of thanks. Beneficiaries included the Mechanics Institute, the School of Art, Beckett’s Hospital, the Oaks Colliery Relief Fund, and perhaps the most well-known, the Public Hall, now The Civic.

As well as world renowned art, there will be lots of family activities taking place throughout the exhibition. Visitors can meet members of the Harvey family to find out about their lives and budding artists can create their own masterpieces fit for a gallery.

On Sunday, 20 March, the museum will be celebrating Barnsley History Day, with stalls, family activities, film shows and special talks about Vikings in Yorkshire, Maurice Dobson of Darfield and Pre-Raphaelite links in Barnsley.

To find out more about the exhibition and the story of the Harveys visit www.experience-barnsley.com or call 01226 772 500.