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175 anniversary logo

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

A concert opened the 175 anniversary celebrations at the University

The Music Department celebrated the ºÚÁÏÉç’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. 

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.

Commemoration of Harold Wilson’s birth

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

The University hosts European Researchers’ Night

The ºÚÁÏÉç’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.