Cosmopolitan Boston

Come and Hear About a New and Exciting Opportunity to Engage with Community Heritage

What is Cosmopolitan Boston?
Cosmopolitan Boston is a new project that invites a group of community members to explore the hidden histories and diverse heritage of Boston. The group will receive training before being tasked with carrying out some historical research such as exploring archives and gathering oral histories from the community.
The project will take place during June – November 2023 and will culminate in a public celebration of the work, chosen and designed by the group (this could be, for example, an exhibition, film or public workshop).
What does the project look to achieve?
Whilst Boston has a rich historical heritage, these histories are not always known.
Although many people are aware of the town’s role in founding Boston in the United States, few know that ‘our’ Boston was once one of England’s richest towns.
The development of the town was influenced by Dutch engineers and Irish labourers, and local companies such as Norprint played their part in revolutionising public transport across the world.
The project will seek to explore these histories further, looking at the ways in which Boston has always been a cosmopolitan and connected town.
Research shows that getting involved with heritage and the arts can help to create a sense of pride and belonging, to tackle social exclusion and to help build strong cohesive communities.

We want to understand what positive things happen when community members participate in a project like this.
The findings will be shared in a final report and a public exhibition, and we will also work with our project partners to publish recommendations regarding how heritage and the arts can instill local pride and build a sense of community.
What are we looking for?
We are looking for interested participants who can commit at least 20 hours during June – November 2023. No prior skills or experience required!
Why should I take part?
You will receive £15/per hour for your participation in the project. You will also have the opportunity to make new friends, to work with new people, to learn new skills and to learn more about the place you live in.
Who is running the project?
The project is led by the Institute for Community Research & Development based at the University of Wolverhampton. Our partners include Heritage Lincolnshire and Historic England.
How can I learn more about the project?
If you would like to find out more, please attend one of our introduction sessions.
Thursday 1st June, 6pm-7pm (Venue: TBC – refreshments provided!)
Friday 2nd June, 11am-12pm (Online via Zoom)
There will be the opportunity to hear more, to ask questions and to meet other people who are interested in the project.
To book your place at a session, please email project lead Josh Blamire (j.blamire@wlv.ac.uk). Josh will also be happy to answer any questions you may have.