Press release, 27 January 2025
Cherished childhood stories are set to be retold to visitors through a nostalgic new exhibition in Leeds.
The Story Time exhibition opens at Abbey House Museum this weekend and features a huge variety of historic books and games, each exploring the magical world of children’s stories.
With objects spanning hundreds of years of captivating tales, the exhibition aims to look at how reading, learning and enjoying stories has changed through the ages, and the huge influence children’s books have had on their education, play and imaginations.
Among the many objects on display are a collection of children's books and reading primers from the early 1800s.
Believed to be among some of the earliest books to ever be published specifically for children, the focus of the writers was to get across a strong moral message rather than create a fun story. Examples include The Mice and their Picnic - A Moral Tale, published in around 1809.
Books of classic bedtime stories and fairytales from the 1920s and 1930s also feature, and include timeless characters such as Red Riding Hood, Mother Goose and Cinderella.
Vintage games and jigsaws made by Leeds firm Waddingtons are on display, including some of the original artwork for the firm’s iconic circular jigsaws from the 1960s, which were rescued from a bin by a former company employee.
Beautiful Victorian dolls houses are also displayed alongside modern classic toys based on characters and TV shows like Pinky and Perky, Stingray, Bugs Bunny, She-Ra, The Wombles, The Shoe People and The Moomins.
Kitty Ross, Leeds Museums and Galleries curator of social history, who has been bringing the exhibition together, said: “Storytelling, play and reading are truly timeless elements of our childhoods which span every generation and are such an integral part of our early years.
“What is fascinating is how our approach to these subjects has changed and evolved over time and how our enduring love of stories has been a driving force behind the creation of so many different genres of books, games, toys and entertainment.
“Seeing all of these objects on display together really showcases the remarkable variety of storytelling across the centuries and will hopefully bring back some special memories for visitors too.”
Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, added: “Seeing this remarkable collection of objects on display will be a wonderful trip down memory lane for visitors and will hopefully inspire different generations to think about stories and play together.
“As a city, Leeds has also played an important role in the history of toys and games, and it’s great to see some exhibits paying tribute to that special heritage on show.”
For press enquiries please email Sara Merritt – sara.merritt@leeds.gov.uk