The University celebrated 175 years of its rich heritage with a series of events to mark the special occasion

Eve Hartley on placement at Heritage Quay

Heritage Quay’s special collections on the institutional history of the University of Huddersfield dating back to its founding as the Young Men’s Mental Improvement Society in 1841 (which was swiftly renamed the Huddersfield Mechanics’ Institute) have been an integral component of my research on northern mechanics’ institutes.

Read more about Eve Hartley on Placement at Heritage Quay

A concert opened the 175 anniversary celebrations at the University

The Music Department celebrated the University of Huddersfield’s 175 birthday with a special anniversary concert. This was followed by a series of public lectures delving into the origins of the University and adult education in the town. 

Read more about the concert that opened our 175 anniversary celebrations – 'The Sounds of Time'

Campus buildings re-named to mark 175 anniversary

The University’s Emeritus Chancellor, Sir Patrick Stewart returned to campus to carry out the official renaming ceremony of the drama building now called the Sir Patrick Stewart Building.

Other buildings across the University’s campus were re-named after figures such as the Brontes, Richard Oastler and Joseph Priestley.

Read more about the day of drama for Sir Patrick

Commemoration of Harold Wilson’s birth

The Wilson Family, the University and Royds Hall Community School commemorated the centenary of the birth of the Huddersfield Prime Minister, Harold Wilson with a special visit to the University by his family.

Read more about Harold Wilson – Huddersfield’s famous son

The University hosts European Researchers’ Night

The University of Huddersfield’s campus was transformed into one of the world’s biggest laboratories when it played host to more than 2,300 visitors who had a choice of 40 fascinating workshops, demonstrations and special events illuminating a vast spectrum of scientific research and innovation.

The night was capped by a spectacular firework and laser display – plus a world record attempt.

Over the course of the night visitors had the chance to learn all about the science behind magic, the technology of 3D printing, the secrets of forensic science, the wonders of virtual reality, the nutritional value of eating insects and much more.

Read more about the European Researchers’ Night