The aim of the project was to Research, Educate and Animate and we have done this by uncovering and bringing the history of St. Columb’s Park House to life; publishing a book; creating an infographic trail through the grounds and gardens that tells the history of the house, developing a timeline of this history and reconnecting the community with the house through a series of animated events, walks and talks.

We have been lucky enough to have the dedication and commitment of 4 local historians who have given of their time and expertise voluntarily, working hard in the background, researching and exploring archives, uncovering a wealth of information about the House and the families who lived here. This history and story of St Columbs Park House has been compiled into a book which we published in January 2025.

This book, ‘St. Columb’s Park House – The Hidden History’ has been distributed among community organisations, libraries and schools across the City and beyond to ensure that this rich heritage remains current.

This project has enabled us to reach groups who would not necessarily participate in history talks and to engage with them in a more accessible and fun way. We have achieved this by tailoring our walks and talks to suit a diverse audience and by creating events that animates history using alternative methods.
As part of the project we engaged an Artist In Residence, The MakeyUppers, to explore the history of the house and bring that to life through laughter-filled sessions such as our ‘silly séance’- ‘Who is the Lavender Lady?’ and ‘Family Trees’.