This unique exhibition focuses on the development of Belfast from pre-Christian times until the present day, exploring its transition from a minor trading post into a Victorian centre of shipbuilding, engineering and textiles.
Visitors will also learn of the the changes and trends that are once again changing Belfast into a noted European capital and tourist destination. Admission to the exhibition is free.
The Story of Belfast has been developed by the Belfast Civic Trust, a charity concerned with the city's built and national heritage, and PRONI will be holding a launch event to formally welcome the exhibition.
It will be held on Friday 4 April, from 11am to 12:30pm, and will open with an illustrated talk on the work of the Belfast Civic Trust by David Flinn, Chairperson of the Trust, who hopes to inspire similar heritage groups interested in unlocking the stories of their own localities.
An illustrated presentation will follow from PRONI’s Ian Montgomery. Entitled Improving Belfast? A glimpse of Belfast in 1911, this will examine the social conditions, built fabric, and physical shape of inner city's communities in 1911. Using PRONI's photographic and textual sources, the talk will provide fascinating insight on society on the eve of a decade of dramatic social, political and constitutional change.
The opening event is free to attend but booking is required. Email proni@dcalni.gov.uk or call (+44) 028 90 534800 to secure your place.
Venue: PRONI, 2 Titanic Boulevard, Belfast BT3 9HQ.