Suffolk Archives' latest exhibition 'Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk' is now open at The Hold in Ipswich, and explores historical and contemporary experiences of migration to Suffolk since the end of World War II.­­­­

'Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk' has been co-curated by Suffolk Archives, a Suffolk County Council service, with local community groups. 

Made possible by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the free exhibition includes items from Suffolk's archive collections, as well as items on loan from communities across the county that celebrate different foods, clothing, traditions, and culture.

Exhibition highlights include:

• New oral history recordings from a wide range of individuals from diverse communities 
• A section exploring and celebrating migrant entrepreneurs and their Suffolk-based businesses
• Archive materials from Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality
• An exploration of Jewish refugees living in Suffolk during World War II including The Orbach Family
• A deep dive into the migration story of Polish soldier Marion Laskowski, including his suitcase
• Archive materials relating to the Windrush generation including documents and correspondence from Cranes Limited
• Examples of traditional costumes and clothing from across the globe

 As an extension of the exhibition, Suffolk Archives has also been working with local groups, artists and schools, on a community art installation called 'The Journey'. The installation has been created from 125 birds made from sustainably sourced plywood, which are decorated to represent stories of migration in a creative way. The flock of birds is on display in The Street area of The Hold.

Councillor Bobby Bennett, Suffolk County Council's Cabinet Member for Equality and Communities said: "I would like to thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their support. It is through them that Suffolk Archives have been able to work with individuals and communities, exploring the rich and varied history of those who have called Suffolk home over the years."

Magdalena Chambers, Co- Managing Director of the Polish Community Hub, one of the community groups involved in the project, said: "As members of the Polish community, we feel very privileged to be invited to take part in this amazing project.  

"The Arrivals exhibition not only celebrates the contributions of minorities but also serves as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding. By sharing these stories, Suffolk Archives hopes to promote a deeper appreciation for Polish culture and heritage among other nationalities, fostering inclusivity and diversity within our community."

If you are interested in contributing your own stories to the project, there are various ways to do it. Suffolk Archives has partnered with Chronicle Digital Storytelling to develop new and innovative methods for collecting oral history recordings. These include an app called StoryQuest and an interactive phone box, which will be available at The Hold during the exhibition.

'Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk' is now open and runs until Sunday 14 April 2024 at The Hold on Ipswich Waterfront. Entry is free and open to all ages.

Exhibition opening times are 10:00 - 16:00 Monday to Friday, with late opening until 9pm on Thursdays. 10:00 - 16:00 Saturday and Sunday.

You can book free tickets for the 'Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk' exhibition by visiting: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk. Alternatively, just turn up and depending on the capacity of the exhibition gallery you will be admitted as soon as possible.

The Café at The Hold is also open daily for visitors to drop in for refreshments. 

There is also a programme of events accompanying the 'Arrivals: Celebrating Migration to Suffolk' exhibition. These are ticketed and can be booked in advance by visiting: www.suffolkarchives.co.uk. 

Exhibition Curator Tours, various dates in December to April, £5 (advance booking required).

Go beyond the displays with a special tour from our exhibition team. Find out more, hear new stories, and ask your burning questions. Ticket includes tour and exhibition admission. Visit www.suffolkarchives.co.uk for dates and time slots.

Multicultural Winter Festival, Saturday 9 December, 10:00 – 16:00. Free

Come along and immerse yourself in the customs and flavours of winter and holiday celebrations from Suffolk's rich and multi-cultural community. Explore the marketplace, music, dance and enjoy family crafts and tradition.