A Right Royal Do - March 31st - July 7th

During the Queen's Diamond Jubilee we take a look back at Oldham's royal celebrations through the years.  Using photographs and objects from our collections we will rekindle memories of a host of royal visits to the borough and of the street parties and firework displays that have marked jubilees and coronations.

We'll tell the story of the Oldhamer arrested for lighting the 1897 jubilee bonfire several hours ahead of schedule.  And recall the musical contributions of both William Walton and Dame Eva Turner to illustrious royal occasions.  We may even spare a thought for the staff at Platt Brothers who had to work overtime in 1954 to enable the Queen to see their factory in operation!

Of course there'll be souvenir plates, newspapers, bunting and biscuit tins. But more unusual items include a fantastic red, white and blue dress made especially for the 1937 coronation.  And we even have the ceremonial key which the Queen Mother broke when turning it in the lock to officially open the Oldham Civic Centre in 1979.