Hitchin holds a unique place in the history of education as it boasts the world’s last remaining purpose-built Monitorial schoolroom. The grade II* listed building opened in 1837, but the school was founded in 1810, a full 80 years before the government finally provided free elementary education for all.
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Find out more about the museum and its history
Past and present exhibitions View All
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Devotion to Duty: Frank Young, V.C.
Learn about local soldier Frank Young's acts of bravery and see his Victoria Cross on display here in his home town *EXTENDED OPENING HOURS Find out more
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Pop-up exhibition - Mr McGill's Postcards
Humour is an important ingredient in picture postcards but humour changes. Here are a few cards from the first three decades of the last century. Are they still funny?
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The Headmaster's House - Christmas has arrived!
Victorian Christmas has arrived at the Headmaster's House! Downstairs, it is Christmas Day. The Fitch family are in the middle of their traditional lunch, and are ready to have the Christmas pudding before opening up the presents. Upstairs, it's Boxing Day. The boy's and girl's bedrooms are in various states of tidiness, with wrapping paper thrown asunder, while they are still enjoying their Christmas presents.