Intrigued by tales of London’s maritime past? The London Museum Docklands stands as a testament to the city’s rich history. It explains the River Thames story. It details the growth of the Port of London. It also reveals the docks’ historical link to the Atlantic slave trade.
The London Museum Docklands is part of the London Museum. It receives funding from the City of London Corporation and the Greater London Authority. The museum opened in 2003. It is located in West India Quay. The building itself is a Grade I listed early 19th-century Georgian warehouse. These warehouses were built in 1802. They once served as “low” sugar warehouses.
Much of the collection comes from the Port of London Authority. These items became part of the Museum of London’s collections in the 1970s. Before the Museum Docklands opened they were put into storage in 1985. The London Museum Docklands presents its collection using modern techniques. Tony Robinson of Time Team presents videos. The museum houses many historical artifacts. Models and pictures help tell the story. Twelve galleries plus a children’s gallery called Mudlarks are arranged over two floors. The museum directs visitors through the displays in chronological order.
Periods covered range from Roman times to the 1970s. The story goes from the first port on the Thames to the closure of London’s central docks. It ends with the area’s transformation. This includes commercial and residential developments.
The London Museum Docklands also hosts talks and events. These connect with the docks’ history. Dock workers from the 1960s often participate. The museum’s archives are housed in the reading room and Sainsbury Study Centre.
The museum acquired several historic vessels. These were meant for preservation. Tugboats Knocker White and Varlet were acquired in 1986. By 2010, the museum decided to focus its vessel collection. Some vessels were transferred to other groups. The last two vessels went to Trinity Buoy Wharf in 2016.
In 2007, the museum marked the bicentenary of the Slave Trade Act 1807. The London Museum Docklands opened an exhibition called London Sugar Slavery. In 2016, the museum opened an exhibit about the No 1. Warehouse building itself. It was built in 1802 during the West India Docks expansion. That same year, Dick Moore’s George Cross medal was displayed. This medal recognized his bravery during the London Blitz. In 2017, an exhibit showcased archaeological finds from Crossrail work.
The Port of London Authority Archive offers a learning opportunity. It allows visitors to learn about the docks. The London Museum Docklands holds objects and archives. These provide insight into the docks’ construction, operation, and management.
Inside the London Museum Docklands, you can find mummified cat and rat. These creatures were found in the London docks vaults in the 1890s. The cat was part of pest control efforts. Both animals were stuck between bottles of mercury. Environmental conditions led to mummification. They have been together on display ever since.
The docks attracted many visitors. Not just those on business. A visitor book recorded names such as Sarah Bernhardt and Queen Mary. The docks also saw wine and spirit tastings. Dock employees sometimes enjoyed the odd tipple.
Security at the docks was important. Each dock company maintained its own police force. The museum’s archive has records and photos of the PLA Police. One photo shows the first female recruits training in martial arts in the 1950s.
So, next time you explore the London Museum Docklands. Consider the wealth of information stored behind the scenes. The archives give context to the museum objects. They reveal the details of institutions such as the Port of London. They offer unique insights into its history.