A new exhibition called Unlocking the Vaults which focuses on the history behind the Birmingham Municipal Bank is open at The Exchange.
As part of the University of Birmingham’s events programme for Birmingham Heritage Week, which runs from September 11 to 20, the exhibition will focus on stories from the bank’s former safe deposit facility containing more than 4,000 deposit boxes.
The exhibition draws on two years of research and more than a century of Birmingham history.
Visitors can expect to see original archives, objects, photographs and first-hand accounts that reveal how the bank became part of everyday life for generations of Brummies.
There are also personal memories from former employees and customers plus contemporary photography on display.
The Unlocking the Vaults exhibition is supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
Jane McArdle, who led the project, said: “Unlocking the Vaults has been a truly special journey working with community members to uncover and share the personal histories surrounding the Birmingham Municipal Bank.
“By unearthing the stories of this unique institution, we've been able to shine a brand-new light on Birmingham's history, and we're delighted to share this with our visitors to The Exchange.”
Take a look below for a sneak peek at some of the gems unearthed for the exhibition:
1. Retro view of the Birmingham Municipal Bank (BMB)
Chance to learn more about the fascinating history of Birmingham Municipal Bank (BMB) in a new free exhibition, which will be part of Birmingham Heritage Week. | University of Birmingham
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2. Decimalisation information
Chance to learn more about the fascinating history of Birmingham Municipal Bank (BMB) in a new free exhibition, which will be part of Birmingham Heritage Week. | University of Birmingham
3. Retro photo of Birmingham Municipal Bank
Chance to learn more about the fascinating history of Birmingham Municipal Bank (BMB) in a new free exhibition, which will be part of Birmingham Heritage Week. | University of Birmingham
4. Now known as The Exchange, this building was once the Birmingham Municipal Bank
Chance to learn more about the fascinating history of Birmingham Municipal Bank (BMB) in a new free exhibition, which will be part of Birmingham Heritage Week. | Greg Milner, Greg Milner Photogr