A free community exhibition about the legacy of the British Empire opens at Summerlee Museum in Coatbridge on Sunday 4 October 2026, and runs for three weeks.
Traces of Empire: Voices, Memories & Our Shared History is organised by North Lanarkshire Muslim Women & Family Alliance (NLMWA), with North Lanarkshire Council and Historic Environment Scotland.
Stories from the community
The exhibition was created with community groups across North Lanarkshire. It draws on oral histories, workshops and storytelling sessions. Through real accounts of migration, resilience and belonging, it invites visitors to reflect on the past and how it still shapes the present.
Four themes
The organisers describe four core themes: genuine accounts from real people, discovering history through new and diverse perspectives, building respect and empathy between communities, and celebrating diversity and community voices.
Who it is for
Everyone is welcome. The organisers particularly invite voluntary and community organisations, faith and cultural groups, youth groups, older people, families, local councillors and partners. NLMWA describes it as a community event led by women, for everyone.
About the organisers
NLMWA has supported women and families and brought communities together across North Lanarkshire since 1994.
Visiting
Venue: Summerlee Museum, Coatbridge, ML5 1QD. Opens Sunday 4 October 2026 for three weeks. Admission is free. Check opening hours with the museum before you travel.
