Town Hall Museum and Spotlight Gallery shortlisted for prestigious award

Historian David Olusoga launches search for the East Midlands’s hidden heritage gems

Three historic sites in the East Midlands shortlisted for public vote in ‘Everyday History Heroes’ competition to uncover places that celebrate the everyday people who shaped the nation

Historian and broadcaster David Olusoga OBE has today launched a major new public award inviting the nation to vote for their favourite hidden heritage gems across the country – with the East Midlands boasting three of the shortlisters selected for the public vote.

Created by a partnership between Heritage Open Days and UK family history website, Findmypast, the ‘Everyday History Heroes’ award celebrates the historic and cultural sites that champion the stories of ordinary people – from nurses and miners to teachers, soldiers and changemakers. The award centres on the grassroots histories that often go untold: the communities who powered industries, stood up for their beliefs, and built modern Britain

Celebrating its 250th anniversary this year, Newark Town Hall is a beloved local landmark. Visitors to the Town Hall can visit the Museum and Art Gallery and the magnificent John Carr designed ballroom. The museum’s volunteers make an enormous effort to research the everyday stories of apprentices, teachers, prisoners and tradespeople whose lives shaped the Nottinghamshire town across generations. Special events bring Newark’s residents vividly back to life, including their ‘Open Cells’ experiences and Heritage Open Days events.
Barbara Kramer lead researcher for the Friends of Newark Town Hall and Art Gallery, said: ‘QUOTE We’re delighted to be shortlisted for Everyday History Heroes and to see Newark’s rich everyday history recognised in this way. Through our events, exhibitions and volunteer research, we aim to bring the stories of the town’s ordinary residents to life and help people connect with the generations who shaped Newark’s past.’

Historian David Olusoga is encouraging people to get involved and explore these sites as local gems:

‘History isn’t just about the famous names we learn in school – it’s about millions of ordinary people whose actions shaped the world we live in today. We want to celebrate the amazingly diverse heritage and cultural sites that help us connect with people of the past, and understand how families and communities like our own lived, worked, and made their mark. I encourage everyone to explore the shortlist, discover a hidden gem near you, and cast your vote.’

A total of 24 sites and teams have been shortlisted across England. The shortlisters feature a diverse mix of hidden gems and each represents a unique or unexpected interpretation of everyday history, rooted in local communities and heritage.

The public is now invited to vote for their favourite site, helping to crown England’s first-ever Everyday History Heroes. Voting is open until 31 August, with a national winner and seven regional winners to be announced on 10 September. Winners will receive a donation to help fund their community initiatives.

To show your support, please do vote for us on
https://www.findmypast.co.uk/…/everyday-history-heroes…

We’re thrilled to have been shortlisted for Everyday History Heroes 2026, a national celebration of the organisations, places and people keeping local history alive. Public voting is now open and we’d love your support.