About us
Travel back in time to the bustling seaport of Whitehaven – home of the Jefferson’s family business. Founded by Robert Jefferson in 1785 the Jeffersons traded in wines from Spain and Portugal and rum, sugar and molasses from the West Indies.
Most of the sugar imported into Whitehaven was from the Jefferson-owned estate in Antigua and it was from there they also imported their famous Jefferson’s Rum, with all the imports being carried by their own ships.
Journey through our atmospheric attraction and soak up Whitehaven’s fascinating history, from pirates and smugglers to Nelson’s navy and jazz age gangsters.
Housed in the original 1785 warehouse and offices of the Jefferson family business you can’t get any closer to real life history – dusty barrels and all!
Follow the passage of enslaved people from their west African villages to the sugar plantations of Antigua, learn about our maritime history and discover the role of the rum trade in Whitehaven, Britain and beyond.
Our mission and vision
The Rum Story is committed to preserving the heritage of the Jefferson family business and telling the story of Whitehaven’s role in the rum trade.
We aim to:
- offer a comprehensive collection of stories and narratives relating to the rum trade, slavery, shipping and maritime history
- work with local organisations, including Anti Racist Cumbria, to ensure we share our history with honesty and sensitivity
- actively listen and put people at the heart of what we do
- treat people fairly and inclusively, embracing equality and diversity
- strive for continuous improvement and a better future
We welcome your thoughts on our exhibits and invite you to contact us with your feedback.
History of The Rum Story
Located on the West Cumbrian coast, this fascinating exhibition and event space is owned and managed by Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners.
Since opening its doors as a tourist attraction in 2000, The Rum Story has offered an interactive, thoughtful and challenging experience to hundreds of visitors every year.
The Rum Story offers an authentic depiction of life in 18th century Whitehaven, as the attraction is set in the original 1785 shop, cellars, bonded warehouse and courtyard of the Jefferson family business. We are deeply passionate about preserving our history and protecting the legacy of this unique local institution.
