Press Releases

National Museums and Galleries month is a chance to celebrate the work of museums throughout the country and an ideal opportunity to showcase the treasures on offer.

"Many people think that museums are stuffy, dreary places, but today's museums are totally different," said Julie Williams, marketing officer at Llanberis's National Slate Museum. "Our museum for example is actually housed in the original industrial buildings which once serviced the massive Dinorwig Slate Quarry behind it, and the majority of our objects are out in the open to be seen and enjoyed. Our daily demonstrations of slate splitting and dressing are extremely popular with adults and children as is our giant waterwheel – one of the biggest in Europe!"

Some of the special events on offer during May include a series of 'behind the scenes' sessions on 9, 16 and 23 May which highlight some of the activities that the public don't generally have a chance to see.

On 9 May, Documentations Officer, Tudur Jones, will be talking about the Quarrymne's Houses, how they were furnished and how they are looked after today. On 16 May, Quarry craftsman Carwyn Price will be demonstrating how to make a slate fan and on 23 May, Museum Curator, Cadi Iolen, will be revealing the latest developments with the museum's pattern loft and talking about some of the new developments that have taken place there during the past year.

On 13 May there will be a 'New York' migration memories day to follow on with the museum's ongoing appeal for memories with regards to twinning with the Slate Valley Museum in Granville New York. Museum Keeper Dr Dafydd Roberts will discuss his recent trip to the States to work with the museum and there will an opportunity for anyone who has memories or stories to tell to come along and 'swap stories'

"This is an excellent opportunity for people to see something 'extra' here at the museum. All these things go on regularly but it's nice to open them up to the public to show what kind of work we do and why!" added Julie.

The talks begin at 2.30pm and last for about 20 minutes. The New York event is from 2 to 4pm. All events are FREE. For more information please contact Julie Williams on 01286 873707

Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales operates seven museums across Wales – National Museum Cardiff, St Fagans: National History Museum, National Roman Legion Museum, Caerleon, Big Pit: National Coal Museum, Blaenafon, National Wool Museum, Dre-fach Felindre, National Slate Museum, Llanberis and the National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. Entry to all Amgueddfa Cymru – National Museum Wales sites is free, thanks to the support of the Welsh Assembly Government.