Help shape the opening exhibition at the new Museum of Watford "Fabric of Watford".
The Museum of Watford is inviting local people to take part in a unique co-curation project to help create ‘Fabric of Watford’, a new exhibition exploring the social history of silk and the legacy of the town’s silk mills.
The museum is seeking residents, former mill workers and their families, community members, creatives, students and history enthusiasts to join a co-curation group that will work alongside museum staff to develop the exhibition.
‘Fabric of Watford’ will uncover the stories behind one of Watford’s most important industries, exploring everything from the lives of mill workers and their families to the global journeys of silk itself. Through personal memories, archive material, photographs and objects, the exhibition will reveal how silk helped shape the town and its communities.
The new exhibition is part of the Museum of Watford which has been made possible by The National Lottery Players, with thanks to National Lottery players.
Participants will help explore local history, share stories and memories, discuss exhibition themes, and contribute ideas for displays and visitor experiences. No museum experience or specialist knowledge is required.
The co-curation programme will run from September 2026 to January 2027, with one Saturday session and one evening session each month.
Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor, said: "Fabric of Watford is a fantastic opportunity for local people to help tell the story of our town through the experiences, memories and voices of the community. Whether you have a family connection to the silk mills, an interest in local history, or simply want to be part of creating something meaningful, we would love to hear from you. Together, we can uncover stories that might otherwise be forgotten and create an exhibition that truly reflects Watford’s rich heritage."
Anyone interested in joining the co-curation group is encouraged to complete the application form and share a little about themselves, their interests and any connection they may have to Watford’s silk history.
Applications are now open and the deadline is on 31 August 2026.
Click here for more information or to apply
