Dmu Is 155: an Invitation to Touch History

Welcome to De Montfort University at 155 Years: A Journey Through History

De Montfort University (DMU) has reached a milestone of 155 years, marking the anniversary of its Leicester School of Art. This significant achievement is not just a number but a testament to the institution’s enduring commitment to education and innovation in Leicester.

A National Campaign: Explore Your Archive Week

DMU is commemorating this historical moment through Explore Your Archive Week, which runs from November 29th to December 7th. This national campaign invites staff, students, and the general public to explore and engage with DMU’s rich history.

The Rich History of De Montfort University

Katharine Short, the Archive and Special Collections Manager at DMU, highlights the importance of exploring this history. “In March, the Leicester School of Art turned 155, and that’s a direct predecessor of De Montfort University today,” she explains. The archive holds invaluable materials that chronicle DMU’s contributions to Leicester and its evolution over the years.

One of the highlights of the archive is a 500-year-old document, which Katharine describes as “quite a different experience” compared to visiting an art gallery or museum. Visitors are encouraged to touch and feel these historical items, making the learning process more engaging and tactile.

Unique Artifacts: A Window into the Past

The archive is not only rich in documents but also contains unique artifacts such as medieval weaponry from the English Civil War era. These pieces were originally collected from Trinity Building, which used to be a hospital providing healthcare to poor and infirm people since the Middle Ages. Katharine shares, “The sword, shield, and buckler are likely ceremonial pieces not made for combat, while the Wyvern is a Victorian addition.” This collection of items provides a vivid glimpse into the past, linking modern students to their historical roots.

Connecting Students to Their Past

Katharine emphasizes that exploring DMU’s history is vital for fostering a sense of connection among contemporary students. “Because so much has changed about DMU’s identity over the years, and especially the name, I think it’s hard for staff and students now to feel connected to the Leicester School of Art,” she says. The archive plays an essential role in helping students understand their place in this continuous chain of education.

“I recently taught a module on the History of Education with teacher training students, and DMU became a case study for them in how higher education changes impacted us over the twentieth century.” This perspective helps students see the broader context of educational developments and recognize the lasting impact of their institution’s history.

Engaging Through Social Media

To celebrate Explore Your Archive Week, the archive team will be posting daily updates on social media platforms such as Bluesky, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter. This engagement strategy aims to reach a wider audience and spark interest in DMU’s rich history.

Accessibility for All

The archive is located in Kimberlin Library on campus and is open from Tuesday to Friday, with booking an appointment being preferred but not essential. Anyone interested can find more information by visiting the website or emailing [email protected].

De Montfort University’s 155th anniversary marks a significant milestone in its long-standing legacy of education and innovation. By exploring their history through initiatives like Explore Your Archive Week, DMU continues to connect past and present, ensuring the university’s rich heritage remains a source of pride and inspiration for all.

Explore Your Archive Week runs from November 29th to December 7th, offering an opportunity for everyone to delve into this fascinating part of DMU’s history. Join in and discover more about the institution that has shaped Leicester for over a century and a half.