Celebrations as Eastwood's DH Lawrence Museum turns 50 years-old

The musuem, at 8a Victoria Street was fist opened on Monday, June 28, 1976 by former of Broxtowe Council chairman Coun Ray Hudson (and, allegedly, Lawrence’s spirit) after a campaign by group of local enthusiasts for the building – the house that Lawrence was born in – to become a museum to the famous author.

Chief among the campaigners was Enid Goodband (1925-2016) a passionate local historian, a founder member of the DH Lawrence Society and the museum’s first Curator.

Enid was born and raised in the same Eastwood mining community where Lawrence grew up.

Her grandfather was an Eastwood coal miner, meaning her own family lived the exact same working-class lifestyle that Lawrence famously depicted in his novel Sons and Lovers.

In 1991 the museum expanded into a neighbouring property on Scargill Walk, allowing for extra exhibition space, a new gift shop, and reading room.

More recently, the museum founded the annual DH Lawrence Festival in partnership with the DH Lawrence Society, launched an international children’s writing competition, has been featured on national TV with Bargain Hunt, strengthened relationships with universities in Nottingham and Beijin, and welcomed a new striking mural across the road, depicting Bertie himself alongside the phoenix synonymous with his most famous work – Lady Chatterley’s Lover.

In the half century since opening, Lawrence fans have travelled from all corners of the globe to pay homage to Eastwood’s famous son, some from as far as New Zealand, China, and the USA.

But the museum has also become a favourite among many locals.

Coun Teresa Cullen (Brox All), portfolio holder for health and leisure at Broxtowe Council, said: “I’m so incredibly proud of what the museum’s been able to achieve over the past 50 years after the wheels were set in motion by the great Enid Goodband.

"We’ve welcomed thousands of visitors from all walks of life who have come to know and love Eastwood’s very own David Herbert Lawrence.

“The museum holds huge cultural significance to the local area and wider literary community and brings a great deal of pride to the town.

"It’s not only become a hub for all things Lawrence, but a hub for all things community, regularly hosting exhibitions from local amateur artists, wellbeing walks, and opportunities for friends and families to gather and create memories.

"I can’t wait to see what the next 50 years brings.”

Carolyn Melbourne, museum and collections officer, added: “During my time at the museum, I have seen how it has inspired visitors of all ages. Naturally people come to learn more about DH Lawrence, and there are many fascinating aspects to his biography.

"Also though, the historic rooms are like a time capsule, connecting visitors to a way of life and to the people who once lived in the area.”

For more information about the museum, visit broxtowe.gov.uk/dhlawrencemuseum