Exciting opportunity to become a Research and Archive Volunteer on the Watkin Project!
Where: Grimsby and Cleethorpes
When: Occasionally
The Watkin project will include a series of educational and digital resources focusing on the astonishing legacy of Edward Watkin . The educational resources will support educators and schools with a bank of resources to support them in their teaching of the Victorian period and the local history of Grimsby and Cleethorpes. The digital resources will include a film about the wider area of Grimsby docks, past, present and future and a digital trail based in Cleethorpes.
Who is Edward Watkin?
Railway entrepreneur, Edward Watkin, made significant contributions in Grimsby and Cleethorpes, particularly in the railway network, earning him the name "Mr Grimsby & Mr Cleethorpes." Some of these contributions include large investments of money into Grimsby docks in the 19th century and linking it with the railway as chairman of the MSLR (Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway) which allowed it to develop into the world’s largest fishing port. Before Watkin, Cleethorpes was a small fishing village, by providing money for the creation of a sea wall, promenade and bringing the railway to the area it soon became a popular seaside resort with some even nicknaming it ‘Sheffield-on-Sea’.
The Role
Why volunteer with us?
As a volunteer on the Watkin project, you will contribute to sharing and celebrating Grimsby and Cleethorpes' history! You will have the opportunity to engage with your local community and heritage in a meaningful way, helping to reshape the perception surrounding Grimsby and its prospects for young people into a positive narrative. Highlighting the importance of future development of both Grimsby and Cleethorpes.
You will also be invited to attend a series of free training sessions where you will learn about digital technologies & skills and how they can be utilised in the heritage sector on heritage projects. Training will also guide you on researching historic material and IP (Intellectual Property) and copyright.
Main aims/volunteer role:
As a Research and Archive Volunteer, you will support us to create both the educational and digital resources. You will do this by...
- Reviewing existing research materials - refining materials to decide what can be utilised in this project.
- Offering feedback on the drafted resources - your perspective will open up the conversation for improvements and alterations to make the resources the best they can be.
- Attending free training workshops - these workshops will cover a series of themes providing you with an insight on how digital tools can be used in the heritage sector. These free learning opportunities are a great way to strengthen your CV with new skills.
There will also be an opportunity to become an Events Co-ordinator Volunteer at the end of project celebratory event, to support the showcase of the educational and digital resources. It’ll be an excellent opportunity to celebrate your involvement on the project! More details will be provided on the Events Co-ordinator Volunteer role as the project progresses.
How to apply
We are recruiting for volunteers until 31st April 2024 and volunteers will need to be available occasionally for the next few months.
If you would be interested in becoming a Research and Archive Volunteer and supporting us on the Watkin Project, please complete the Volunteer Application Form below and email to anna@heritagelincolnshire.org.
FAQs
Are DBS checks required for the role?: Yes
What if I haven't volunteered before? Don't worry, you will be guided throughout the process and work as part of a team. You will be provided with learning that is applicable to the role and responsibilities.
Will own transport be required?: Yes
Will you reimburse out of pocket expenses? Yes. Expenses for travel up to 20 miles radius from Grimsby & Cleethorpes and parking payable.
If you have any further questions please get in touch, we'll be more than happy to answer.
Background to the Watkin Project
Heritage Lincolnshire need your help to share the largely unknown legacy of Edward Watkin also known as “Mr Grimsby & Mr Cleethorpes.” Supported by funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund (thanks to Lottery players) and partnering with the Watkin Society, we will over the next two years work to promote and highlight the significant contributions made by Watkin in Grimsby and Cleethorpes. Some of these contributions include investing large sums of money into Grimsby docks in the 19th century and linking it with the railway as chairman of the MSLR (Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway) which allowed it to develop into the world’s largest fishing port. Before Watkin, Cleethorpes was a small fishing village, by providing money for the creation of a sea wall, promenade and bringing the railway to the area it soon became a popular seaside resort with some even nicknaming it ‘Sheffield-on-Sea’.
Find out more about the project here.