Forget the Batcave, Ulverston has its own origin story! Imagine the scent of salt air and the cries of gulls mingling with the clatter of horse-drawn carriages outside this sturdy 18th-century cottage. Sir John Barrow’s Cottage isn’t your average historical snoozefest. This Grade II listed building, with its weathered stone walls and creaking floorboards, is where Sir John Barrow, a local legend and real-life explorer who rivalled Indiana Jones (minus the hat, most likely), took his first steps towards epic adventures. Picture young John, born on 19th June 1764, gazing out of the small, paned windows at the rolling hills, dreaming of far-off lands. This son of a yeoman farmer, educated at the nearby Town Bank Grammar School, had a spirit for exploration that blossomed early within these very walls.
But this unassuming cottage was almost lost to time. In recent years, it stood silent and empty following the closure of the Ulverston Heritage Centre. A public consultation in 2015 revealed a strong desire to keep this piece of history for the town, but a sustainable plan was needed. Thankfully, Greenlane Archaeology stepped in, taking over management of the cottage and partnering with local historians, artists, and the Ulverston Civic Society to breathe new life into it.
Today, the cottage is a museum brimming with tales of Sir John’s extraordinary life. Feel the chill of the stone floor beneath your feet as you explore exhibits that unveil his childhood right here in Ulverston. Trace the delicate lines of antique maps with your eyes, just as Barrow did when his wanderlust was first ignited. Hear the rustle of old documents and the faint echo of sea shanties as you delve into the incredible journeys that took him across continents. Did he brave the scorching sun of the African savanna, the smells of spices and exotic animals filling his nostrils? Or did he navigate the bustling, fragrant markets of China, the sounds of bartering and vibrant music swirling around him? The museum spills the beans on his travels, from his early days as a tutor, surveyor’s assistant, and head bookkeeper, to his rise to power as Second Secretary to the Admiralty.
While Sir John himself never ventured into the icy grip of the Arctic, his influence was far-reaching. As Second Secretary to the Admiralty, he championed the search for a North West Passage and funded several successful expeditions, including those of John Ross, William Edward Parry, and James Clark Ross. Imagine the thrill of discovery as these explorers charted unknown waters, the biting wind whipping against their faces, the cries of gulls echoing across the vast expanse of ice. His dedication played a crucial role in unlocking the secrets of this frozen frontier.
Think museums are dusty and dull? Think again! Sir John Barrow’s Cottage is open between Easter and October, offering a chance to time travel and discover the remarkable life that blossomed within these very walls. So, ditch the screens, step into the past, and delve into the real deal. Who knows, you might just be inspired to explore your own backyard (or maybe even further) after getting a glimpse into Sir John Barrow’s incredible journey!
A huge thank you to Cumbria Archives for providing the captivating photos used in this blog post and for their dedication to preserving Cumbria’s heritage. With their kind permission, these images help bring the story of Sir John Barrow’s to life. Image courtesy of Cumbria Archives #CumbriaArchivesPhotos #cumbriahistory
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