A Manchester museum has acquired an “exceptionally rare” jug commemorating the Peterloo massacre, which it will be adding to its collection. Arriving at People’s History Museum (PHM) in time for the anniversary of the Peterloo Massacre, this everyday object carries a powerful story of political protest.
The Peterloo Massacre happened on 16 August 1819, when around 60,000 people had gathered peacefully in Manchester to demand parliamentary reform and more voting rights. However, the charging of cavalry into the large crowd resulted in the deaths of 18 people and injuries to hundreds more.
The jug was acquired thanks to support from the Art Fund, the national charity for museums and galleries. It will join significant Peterloo objects already on display at the museum, including yeomanry sabres, a commemorative handkerchief, and a cane carried by one of the protestors.
What makes this Peterloo Massacre jug so significant and rare?
According to the People’s History Museum, the jug is distinctive in design for the map it carries of the site upon which the Peterloo Massacre took place. Objects connected to the Peterloo Massacre are said to be scarce, which is often the case for working-class history.
Experts believe the jug was made in the years following the massacre, and that it reflects the escalating public anger felt in the aftermath. Although it would have been produced on a commercial scale, no other examples of this design have been identified, making this exceptionally rare.
When will the jug be on display at People’s History Museum (PHM)?
The rare jug will be on temporary display in the galleries at PHM for visitors to get a first look from Saturday 1 August 2026 until Sunday 3 January 2027.
“What first appears as a domestic object has been transformed in its decoration into a political statement.”
Jenny Mabbott, Head of Collections & Engagement at People’s History Museum, said: “We are thrilled to add this rare Peterloo commemorative jug to the museum’s collection and very thankful to the Art Fund for helping us to secure it.
“What first appears as a domestic object has been transformed in its decoration into a political statement. This jug provides a direct link to one of the defining moments in the history of democracy in Britain, and it’s wonderful to know that its new home will be at the national museum of democracy.”
“It adds a new dimension to the story of Peterloo, enriching our understanding of the event’s impact and legacy”
Professor Robert Poole, Peterloo historian and author of works including Peterloo: the English Uprising (Oxford University Press, 2019), has supported efforts to bring the jug to People’s History Museum.
Professor Poole said: “The Peterloo commemorative jug is an exciting addition to the permanent Peterloo displays at People’s History Museum. Placed alongside the existing objects in the museum’s collection, it adds a new dimension to the story of Peterloo, enriching our understanding of the event’s impact and legacy. There’s no more fitting place for it to be.”
How to visit the People’s History Museum in Manchester
Entry to People’s History Museum is free, with most visitors donating £10. The museum is open from 10am to 5pm every day, except Tuesdays.
For further information about PHM, its latest programme of events and visiting the museum, visit phm.org.uk
Find People’s History Museum at Leftbank, Manchester, M3 3ER.
