Social History

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The focus of this collection is local social history, including agricultural and craft tools.

Notable sections within it are the Costume and Textiles, collected primarily on the basis of Bradford’s history in textile manufacturing, and Domestic Material.

The Costume collection is of particular interest, ranging from the 18^th century up to the 21^st century, it contains a small but outstanding collection of wedding dresses, military uniform, costume worn by notable local people, everyday wear and shoes.

There is also a small but significant collection of material relating directly to Cliffe Castle and the Butterfield family.

More Collections

Bradford District Museum & Galleries

A Brief History of the Collections

Bradford District Museums & Galleries (BDMG)’s collections have developed over more than 150 years, even before a museum service existed in the district.

Bradford District Museum & Galleries

Archaeology

The collection comprises some 38,000 items, the majority of which is excavated pot sherds.

Bradford District Museum & Galleries

Fine Art

The print collection includes works by master printmakers such as Francisco Goya, William Blake and Walter Sickert and by modern masters – Pop Artists Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein and Richard Hamilton.

Bradford District Museum & Galleries

Decorative Art

This collection comprises some 5000 items, shared almost equally between furniture and ceramics.