A nostalgic new exhibition in Leeds is bringing beloved childhood stories back to life.
Hosted at the Abbey House Museum, the ‘Story Time’ exhibition showcases an extensive collection of historic books and games, delving into the enchanting world of children’s literature. The exhibition presents objects that span hundreds of years, tracing the evolution of how stories have been read, learned, and enjoyed across generations. It highlights the profound impact that children’s books have had on the education, play, and imaginations of young people through the ages.
The exhibition features an array of objects, including a selection of children’s books and reading primers dating back to the early 1800s. These books are some of the earliest known publications specifically designed for young readers, primarily focusing on imparting moral lessons rather than entertainment. One notable example is ‘The Mice and their Picnic – A Moral Tale’, published around 1809.
Additionally, the exhibition showcases beloved bedtime stories and fairytales from the 1920s and 1930s. Visitors can enjoy classic tales featuring iconic characters like Red Riding Hood, Mother Goose, and Cinderella, offering a glimpse into the storied past of children’s literature.
The exhibition also highlights vintage games and jigsaws from the Leeds-based company Waddingtons, featuring some of the original artwork for the firm’s iconic circular jigsaws from the 1960s. These pieces, which were once rescued from a bin by a former employee, represent a unique part of the company’s history.
Additionally, beautifully crafted Victorian dolls houses are on display, juxtaposed with modern classic toys inspired by popular characters and TV shows. This collection includes toys from ‘Pinky and Perky’, ‘Stingray’, ‘Bugs Bunny’, ‘She-Ra’, ‘The Wombles’, ‘The Shoe People’, and ‘The Teletubbies’, showcasing the evolution of children’s entertainment through the ages.
Kitty Ross, Leeds Museums and Galleries curator of social history, who has been bringing the exhibition together said:
“Storytelling, play and reading are truly timeless elements of our childhoods which span every generation and are such an integral part of our early years. What is fascinating is how our approach to these subjects has changed and evolved over time and how our enduring love of stories has been a driving force behind the creation of so many different genres of books, games, toys and entertainment.
“Seeing all of these objects on display together really showcases the remarkable variety of storytelling across the centuries and will hopefully bring back some special memories for visitors too.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, added:
“Seeing this remarkable collection of objects on display will be a wonderful trip down memory lane for visitors and will hopefully inspire different generations to think about stories and play together. As a city, Leeds has also played an important role in the history of toys and games, and it’s great to see some exhibits paying tribute to that special heritage on show.”
‘Story Time’ is currently open at the Abbey House Museum. For details on opening hours, admission prices, and more information, please visit www.museumsandgalleries.leeds.gov.uk
