This exhibition explores Cornwall’s historic letterpress printing industry, including stories about its community of printers. Discover what letterpress is, why its invention was so far reaching and why it is such an important part of our history - often forgotten.  There is an opportunity to read about the origins of letterpress and how type was made, and to view examples of metal and wooden type and the tools used by printers. Learn why it can be difficult to trace early printers in Cornwall and see examples of surviving works. Uncover the stories of the early Cornish newspapers and the role of the female printers who kept Cornwall’s presses running. Explore the changes to the industry in the nineteenth and twentieth century, and its relationship with and impact on other industries in Cornwall. Browse books in our library which are being printed in Cornwall today and learn about the resurgence of this at-risk heritage craft.

The FREE exhibition will run from 17 February to 13 June 2026 with a programme of talks, workshops and children’s activities. The exhibition is curated by one of the Kresen Kernow Archivists based on her ongoing research into the subject.

Opening hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday 9.30am-4.00pm