We’ve heard of Guy Fawkes and we mark Bonfire Night with fireworks, but how much do we really know about the context, conspiracy and consequences surrounding The Gunpowder Plot?
Get ready for a unique retelling of the story like never before – in the city where it all began in a brand new exhibition at the Bar Convent Living Heritage Centre.
Set against the turbulent backdrop of post- reformation York, The Gunpowder Plot: York’s Untold Story (16 September to 5 December) will take visitors beyond the legend of Guy Fawkes to explore the events surrounding 5 November 1605.
Through rare objects, brand-new interpretation and human storytelling, discover how the plot echoed across the country, left its mark on York, and shaped the lives of the courageous women who founded this remarkable house in its wake.
Dr Hannah Thomas, special collections manager at the Bar Convent, said: “The Gunpowder Plot is part of York’s rich history and here at the Bar Convent we are in a unique position to host this new exhibition; not only is York the city that many key figures called home, but the Bar Convent was established in the shadows of the plot when the Catholic faith was still illegal.
“We are privileged to have significant objects linked to the plot in our collections including the Gunpowder Crucifix which belonged to York priest Edward Oldcorne. He was hanged drawn and quartered in the aftermath of the plot and incredibly the cross is the only object to have survived the raids on Catholic properties following the plot’s discovery.
“Items produced secretly at the time to remember Margaret Clitherow’s death in 1585 will be on display, and visitors can also visit her relic, which is housed in the convent’s secret chapel. Objects in the exhibition that were used to hold secret Catholic Mass also give fascinating insight into the context of the lives of Catholics at the time.
Visitors can also follow a new self-led walking trail to discover the key locations and iconic landmarks that give context to the plot.
“Whether you are a local, visiting York, part of a group or looking for school holiday activities, don’t miss the opportunity to discover our exhibition space transformed to tell the story of The Gunpowder Plot like never before!”
The Gunpowder Plot: York’s Untold Story is included in admission.
