Tuesday Treasure: Weaving histories – 150 years of textile education 

Our popular lunchtime Tuesday Treasure returns with a special show and tell in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the School of Design.

Discover Leeds’ rich history as a clothmaking capital with intricate samples, colourful pattern books, student work, photographs and more from the early years of the Department of Textile Industries – predecessor of the School of Design.

The Department of Textile Industries was founded as part of the Yorkshire College of Science. Established in 1874, the Department went on to become one of the founding academic disciplines of the University of Leeds. As the present day School of Design it continues to be at the forefront of the sector.

A selection of fascinating and beautiful artefacts reveals Leeds’ international influence as a centre of skill and innovation for the past 150 years, and offers us an insight into the student experience of yesteryear.