Sheffield Stories: Caribbean Footsteps

A composite image showing: A woman in a carnival costume including an ornate gold headdress; Travel documents relating to a journey from the Caribbean to the UK; A portrait of a man in a smart grey suit; A brightly coloured painting of three people doing energetic, dance-like movements.

A collection of archive travel documents relating to a journey by boat from the Caribbean to the UK.

Boat travel documents © Sheffield Museums.

Over 75 years ago, the HMT Empire Windrush brought people seeking new opportunities from the Caribbean to fill post-war labour shortages in the UK. These passengers, and other arrivals between 1948 and 1971, helped forge Britain’s future.

This new exhibition celebrates the many ways that people of African Caribbean heritage have contributed to Sheffield life. Shaped by community co-curators, displays share inspiring stories of journeys, culture and heritage, from church, sport and carnival to fighting racism and discrimination.

Contributions from later generations reflect on the legacy of those who arrived decades before, while interactive displays explore food, music, games and fashion.

Suggested donation £5 – please donate if you're able and help keep your museums open and available for everyone to enjoy.