Flooding as a result of Storm Babet has caused significant damaged to the Museum of Making in Derby, housed in the former Old Silk Mill. The Grade II Listed pioneering mill includes remains from the original water-powered silk mill built in 1717-21 by Thomas and John Lombe. The current form of the building dates from a major rebuild in 1910 after a fire destroyed much of the early 18th century building, with additional elements added in the recent conversion to the Museum of Making.
The mill building was designed to withstand some flooding and the recently refurbished museum increased this resilience. However, the water levels in October 2023 reached far higher than predicted during the redesign of the museum structure. The museum’s staff worked tirelessly to move as much as possible off the ground floor before the flood hit, but the damage appears to be substantial. As a charity, Derby Museums relies heavily on donations and earned income through events and catering, which is currently affected by the flooding and its aftermath.
Derby Museums have said that they will be doing a full assessment of the damage as soon as the water has receded and it is safe to enter the building. However, they note that their museums are already in a precarious financial position. As a result, they have launched a public appeal to help raise funds for the restoration and repair of the Museum of Making.
Donations, big or small, can be made through the Derby Museums website here: Derby Museums Donation Page – please select ‘Museum of Making’ as the reason for your gift.
Industrial Heritage Networks 