Birmingham Pen Trade Heritage Association

About

Immerse yourself in the exciting world of pens and calligraphy and explore our amazing collection of over 5,000 objects.

Story

To promote and preserve the history and legacy of the steel Pen Trade in Birmingham, for the advancement of the education and benefit of the public. To maintain a museum that displays the skill and craftsmanship of the Pen Makers and their employees and also houses historic artefacts and ephemera related to the art of writing.

To actively engage with, interest and inform as wide a cross-section of the community in the West Midlands as possible as to the social significance of the introduction of the steel pen, including the wider national and international impact of the Birmingham Pen Trade. To provide opportunities, particularly for young people, to develop an interest in written communication and an appreciation of its place in the modern world.

Mission

To promote and preserve the history and legacy of the steel pen trade in Birmingham, for the advancement of the education and benefit of the public, to maintain a museum that showcases the skill and craftsmanship of the pen makers and their employees and also houses historic artefacts and ephemera related to the art of writing.

Products

Independent Museum
Interactive Activities
Admission:

Adult: £5.00 / Gift Aid: £5.50*

Concession: £4.00 / Gift Aid: £4.40*

Children under 16 go free.

*Gift Aid admission prices include a 10% voluntary donation.

Disabled adult visitors pay standard adult admission but can bring a free carer/personal assistant.

"Making steel pen nibs in Birmingham during the Victorian era was a major industry with 129 companies employing circa 8,000 workers mainly women. By visiting the Pen Museum, you will discover a wide range of fascinating objects and details that help tell the story of Birmingham’s pen trade and its important legacy including the link between a prominent pen manufacturer Josiah Mason and the establishment of the University of Birmingham.The Museum has a range of activities for people of all ages to enjoy including writing with a quill and ink, using typewriters plus an exciting opportunity to make your own nib using the same machinery once operated by women workers in the 19th century.Activities subject to availability on day of visit."