We regularly change the exhibitions in the museum. However, when the exhibitions come down in the museum, we make digital versions that are added to this page. Explore the page to find out about fascinating aspects of Primitive Methodist History.
Primitive Methodism
An overview of the origins of Primitive Methodism and some of the people involved in the movement’s development.
Blood and Guts: A Community at War
Exploring the responses of Primitive Methodists to the First World War, from chaplains to Conscientious Objectors.
Equal?
From September 2021 to October 2022 our Equal? exhibition explored the Black History of Primitive Methodism. It examined Prim involvement in campaigns for the abolition of the slave trade and the emancipation of enslaved people. It brought to light Zilpha Elaw, an “American Female of Colour”, who wrote about the discrimination she experienced on account of her race and gender when preaching in British chapels in the 1840s. The difficulties of exploring PM missions to Africa were discussed and questions posed about how we can join with those we share our faith with today. The display ended by examining home missions within the UK, highlighting the Whitechapel Mission.
Child Mortality
Englesea Brook’s Child Mortality exhibition ran from April 2024 until October 2025.
Childhood in the 1800s could be dangerous – both from illnesses and child labour. The Primitive Methodists tried to improve the living and working conditions of children through education and campaigns.