The Rum Story - The Dark Spirit of Whitehaven

School Groups

A valuable learning experience

Image of the school classroom at The Rum Story, Whitehaven The Rum Story tells the story of Whitehaven, Cumbria and indeed Europe's connections with the New World - with the emphasis on the sugarcane industry.

We explain the social, cultural and economic implications of the rum industry including a detailed study of slavery. We look at piracy, Blackbeard, Prohibition, rum in the Navy and the story of Admiral Lord Nelson

Details the Jefferson family's influence on the history of Whitehaven are also covered, paying particular attention to:

The coal industry and mining

Shipbuilding

The sugar cane industry

Tobacco importation

The Jeffersons were involved in many of Cumbria's most significant industrial and cultural activities, including:

The railways

Banking

Medicine

Naval

Major sporting events and achievements

One of the most interesting features of The Rum Story is the story of 'Coopers' - the school for barrel-makers. Here we give an informative insight on teenage apprenticeships in this industry in the 17th and 18th centuries, practises which remained largely unchanged until the 1900s.

Enjoyment for all

We will ensure that teachers and pupils alike will enjoy The Rum Story, as well as finding it a valuable learning experience. To make sure we fulfil this promise we offer:

Guided tours of the exhibition with highly trained guides who can dress in period costume if required. We also offer guided tours of Whitehaven's Historic Harbour at a cost of £10 per group (maximum number in group 20)

Exclusive use of a classroom or our 'haunted vault', which can cater for up to 150 children.

A well resourced library

A gift shop and café

Packed lunches can be brought and eaten in the classroom or full catering facilities are available at a range of prices to suit all budgets.

A full education programme covering all of the issues relating to the Rum Story is available free on request to visiting schools only on CD-Rom. Non-visiting schools can purchase a CD price £4.99.

All the above for only £2 per child

Explore Whitehaven

Why not extend your visit by discovering some of Whitehaven's fascinating history? Learn more about Whitehaven.