David Livingstone Birthplace

The Birthplace Project transformed our museum.

The museum is now a vibrant visitor attraction, telling the story of Scottish explorer, missionary, and abolitionist David Livingstone.

The Project means that the museum can now deliver learning and public programmes to support schools, community regeneration and international partnerships.

The project has re-ignited the interest in David Livingstone for new generations and further strengthened the world wide connections that Livingstone and his legacy have inspired.

What did the project include?

• The renovation of historical buildings: Shuttle Row and the Weavers Cottages (Grade A listed buildings), including additional display space, refreshed storage facilities with a research room, and refurbished education/workshop spaces
• A new interpretation of our internationally important Collection, telling the story of Livingstone.
• The refurbishment of the Pavilion buildings, to now include a café and shop; and multi-use space for temporary exhibitions, talks, workshops and community use.
• Landscaping of part of grounds to recreate an authentic sense of the Shuttle Row courtyard and to open up the entrance, leading visitors to the Birthplace Museum
• Delivery of an Activity Plan to engage our public, inspire social justice and personal achievement; and make our visitors aware of the heritage value of our historic site

What is the legacy of the Project?

Items from our collection are being exhibited for the first time, in the larger museum space.

Items have been and will continue to be restored.

Learning and public programmes have been (and are being) created, to support community and international development.

The Birthplace will be a location for research.

Our improved interpretation will help people understand and enjoy heritage.

We will record and make our heritage available on-site and on-line.

We will generate a number of community benefits to Blantyre and the wider area.