Lock, Stock & Barrel

Exploring the history of Birmingham, in particular the industrial revolution and its relationship to transatlantic slave trade. Like many major cities, there is clear evidence that Birmingham developed and profited, directly and indirectly, from an economic and industrial system of human degradation and displacement. The local significance of the gun industry in Birmingham and throughout the Black Country can be controversial.

This tour will begin at Steel House Lane. You will be introduced to Quaker Samuel Galton and the growth of Farmer and Galton. In 1793, Galton was an equal partner at Steel House works, and his company was the chief arms supplier to the Committee of the African Company, with an estimated 100,000 guns going towards slave traders. Galton was also a member of the Lunar Society, working very closely alongside Boulton and Watt. His work led to him to become one of the most successful businessmen in the group, as well and being involved in various business ventures such as canal development. 

The tour will then explore the various gun making buildings that played pivotal parts in contributing to the slave trade in Birmingham. You will learn of the shops that are still running to this day that date back to the 1800’s. We will walk around Price Street and learn about the pubs that would be frequent meeting points for workers to get their earnings. We will see the old Gunsmiths houses that would create the arms that would be sent to Africa. 

Additional information

The tour starts at the Police Museum (ticket price includes entry to the Police Museum as part of the tour).

There’s limited pay and display spaces outside the museum on Steelhouse Lane and Whittal Street. The nearest car park is on Weaman Street and there’s also Birmingham Royal Angus NCP car park nearby. If you are blue badge holder, parking is free at pay and display on-street parking bays (with no time limits) and at Birmingham council car park.

Birmingham city centre is a Clean Air Zone so check to see if your vehicle may occur charges.  

The tour is in the heart of the city, with lots of café bars and restaurants to visit. 

This tour is suitable for adults and young people over 14 years old.

Organised by Black Heritage Walks Network