Group scoops top award for building on Smeaton’s legacy

Now their efforts have been recognised as the they were named regional winners in the prestigious Marsh Award for Volunteers in Museum Learning, aimed at recognising the huge impact volunteers have in helping museums engage with their visitors.

Working alongside curators at Leeds Industrial Museum, the Young Smeatonians researched and wrote part of the museum’s current Engineery exhibition, focusing on the impact of civil engineering on the environment and colonialism.

Writing and installing part of the exhibition themselves as well as choosing the objects and designing a Lego trail through the museum, many of the group carried out the project while sitting their A-Levels.

Attending a ceremony held at The British Museum in London, members of the group accepted the award, part of a programme recognising individuals and organisations who devote their lives to improving the world today and in the future.

Aleks Fagelman, assistant community curator at Leeds Industrial Museum, who worked alongside the Young Smeatonians, said: “This is a really proud moment for everyone involved with the group and the exhibition.

“Volunteers are immensely important to museums, and the fresh ideas and perspectives of this group of young history enthusiasts have given the exhibition a completely new dimension.

“It’s also the perfect tribute to John Smeaton that his story and legacy are still inspiring innovation in Leeds three hundred years after he was born.”

Born near Whitkirk, Leeds, in 1724, Smeaton was a self-taught engineer, instrument maker and astronomer. His approach to problem solving and commitment to improving the world around him saw him dubbed the “father of civil engineering.”

Currently on display at Leeds Industrial Museum, Engineery explores the story of Smeaton, civil engineering and the huge impact both have had on the world.

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “It’s fantastic to see our museums service working with local young people and for our collections to be inspiring the next generation of Leeds history lovers.

“John Smeaton played a huge role in putting Leeds on the map, and this imaginative group have continued that proud tradition of creativity and innovation with this prestigious award.”

More details on the Marsh Awards scheme can be found at: Marsh Awards | British Museum

More details about Engineery can be found at: Engineery - Leeds Museums & Galleries

ENDS