Families are being invited to honour fallen First World War soldiers, make medieval-style illuminated letters, create cameras, and discover how Durham County Record Office cares for the region’s history.
The archive, which is based at Durham County Council’s Aykley Heads headquarters, is holding its seventh annual Family Fun Day this half term.
Education and outreach archivist Dawn Layland said: “This is a family fun day with a difference. It’s a great chance to find out about local history and our fun activities are coupled to a rare opportunity to explore the Record Office and our archives as a family.”
On Friday 19 February, from 9.30am to 12.30pm, families will be given the chance to discover what the Record Office offers and find out more about the heritage of County Durham.
There will be lots of activities, including:
- Making your own pinhole camera
- Having a go at historic jigsaws
- Making an illuminated letter like those found in medieval manuscripts
- Making a remembrance card to commemorate a fallen soldier of the First World War
- Seeing the strong rooms where the archives are kept
- Playing with historical toys, and for younger children, dressing up.
Entrance to the fun day is free, and you do not have to book, but children must be accompanied by a parent or carer at all times.