The story of Suttons Seeds: 1806 – present
Learn about the history of Suttons Seeds, a Reading company who revolutionised the UK seed-growing industry.
An introduction to the Barnett project
The Barnett project explores the history of the sewing machine and engages in issues relevant to the textile industry in the modern day.
Why do we eat turkey for Christmas dinner?
This blog explores the history of why we eat turkey at Christmas and the story behind its growth in popularity over the last 500 years.
Heritage bakes: three historical biscuit recipes from our collections
Explore and follow three heritage recipes for baking historical biscuits, including an original recipe by Huntley & Palmers.
200 Years of Huntley & Palmers in Reading, our latest exhibition
Find out about our 2022 Huntley & Palmers exhibition in the Staircase Hall, commemorating 200 years of the Biscuit Town in Reading.
How did rationing work in the Second World War?
Few items are more symbolic of daily life during the Second World War than the ration book. Learn about their history on our blog.
The Building Connections project
Learn about how the Building Connections project has enabled us to explore and share underrepresented stories from England’s rural history.
From the cottage to the high street: pottery in The MERL collection
Read about the modern history of English pottery, and the many different kinds of pottery and ceramics within The MERL collection.
Temporary reading room move – September 2021
Between 31 August and 24 September 2021, the reading room will be moving to the Conference Room to make way for essential maintenance work. The Conference Room is located above the current reading room and can be accessed via the staircase or lift from the locker room. Closure days During this period, however, we will […]
People and Places: why The MERL is taking part in Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month
Throughout June, The MERL is celebrating Gypsy, Roma and Traveller History Month. Running since 2008, this month celebrates ‘the remarkable and immense contributions Gypsy, Roma and Traveller individuals and communities bring to wider society’. Its aim is to help tackle prejudice, challenge myths and amplify the voices of Gypsies, Roma and Travellers. To some readers, it […]