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Unlocking the Vaults

Set within the former safe deposit facility beneath The Exchange, this free exhibition explores how the Birmingham Municipal Bank shaped everyday life in Birmingham. Known as The People’s Bank it was established in 1919 and continued until 1976. The Bank’s head office built in 1933 is now The Exchange, the city-centre home of the University of Birmingham. 

Discover personal stories, original archives and oral histories that reveal the experiences of employees, customers and local communities. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, Unlocking the Vaults brings together outcomes of our recent heritage project, including research undertaken by volunteers and community partners. Highlights include Half Crowns in their Petticoats Reloaded by artist Elly Clarke and Thrift Radiates Happiness, a community photography project developed by Jo Gane.

For more information click here

How to get there:
Getting to The Exchange – University of Birmingham

Organised by The University of Birmingham

DATE & TIME

Fri 11 Sept | 8am-5pm
Sat 12 Sept | 8am-5pm
Mon 14 Sept | 8am-5pm
Tue 15 Sept | 8am-5pm
Wed 16 Sept | 8am-5pm
Thu 17 Sept | 8am-5pm
Fri 18 Sept | 8am-5pm
Sat 19 Sept | 8am-5pm

LOCATION

The Exchange, 3 Centenary Square, Birmingham, B1 2DR

COST

Free

BOOKING

Booking not required

ACCESS

This event is accessible for wheelchair users

Have a question?

Email our co-ordinator:
Irene.deboo@birminghammuseums.org.uk

Birmingham Heritage Week is organised by Birmingham Museums Trust.

Privacy Policy    Cookies    Design ManMade

11—20 Sept 2026

2015—2026
Your heritage, your stories,
your city

Birmingham Heritage Week is organised by Birmingham Museums Trust.

Privacy Policy    Cookies

Design ManMade

Your Heritage:
Your Stories: Your City
11—20 Sept 2026