A pop-up exhibition celebrating the rich history of Stratford, its people and its industries will open at Harvard House on Thursday 3 July. Developed by the Stratford Society and supported by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust (SBT), this new exhibition is an opportunity to gather feedback and explore the potential for a future town museum and heritage centre.
Residents and visitors alike will have the opportunity to explore the fascinating history of Stratford at a new special exhibition opening at Harvard House on Thursday 3 July. The Stratford Heritage Exhibition traces the development of Stratford from an early Neolithic settlement to a modern market town, examining influential people, including author Marie Corelli and designer Tibor Reich, as well as looking at key industries, including the Royal Label Factory and Flower’s Brewery.
The Stratford Society, the curators of the exhibition, are keen to expand the ‘Stratford story’ beyond the Tudor period and the town’s most famous resident, with which Stratford is often most associated.
Commenting on the opening of the Stratford Heritage Exhibition, Jann Tracy, Chair of the Stratford Society said:
“The people of Stratford have long wanted a place where they can explore the stories of their ancestors and understand how Stratford, as a town, developed. This exhibition uncovers that history, showcasing the growth of Stratford beyond its medieval boundaries. We hope that Stratfordians and visitors alike will join us, and share their thoughts, as we take this first step towards a museum and heritage centre for the town.”
The pop-up exhibition has been developed in partnership with the SBT, who have offered their expertise, collections and the venue to the Stratford Society.
CEO of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust, Rachael North, commented:
“We are delighted to support the Stratford Society and provide a space for our community to engage with the fascinating stories that form the rich heritage of Stratford. The enthusiasm and collaborative spirit with which Jann and the Stratford Society have approached all aspects of this partnership with colleagues across SBT has been immensely positive, and I look forward to seeing the audiences’ reaction when the exhibition opens.”
What To Expect
Displays will feature richly illustrated interpretation boards, supported by a specially curated selection of unique objects from the SBT’s archives and museum collections, as well as from local private collections. Some objects, including a commemorative tile celebrating the re-opening of the southern section of Stratford-upon-Avon canal in 1964, will be on public view for the first time.
Visitors to the exhibition will be asked their views on what they would like to see in the development of any potential town museum and heritage centre, and these insights will help both the Stratford Society and the SBT in their future thinking.
Stratford Heritage Exhibition is open from Thursday 3 July until Sunday 28 September 2025 at Harvard House. Admission is free, and everyone is welcome. The Stratford Society continues to seek volunteers to assist with the development of the exhibition and to welcome visitors. No prior knowledge is needed and there are varied times available. If you’d like to volunteer, please email: [email protected] with the subject line: Harvard House.