Murdoch House and the Cornish Global Migration Programme

Cross Street, Redruth TR15 2BU

Home of one of the most influential inventors in global history, Murdoch House in the town centre was the first building in the world to be lit by gas lighting and was the hub of engineering breakthroughs.

Murdoch HouseIn this house over 200 years ago William Murdoch, the father of the modern gas industry, pioneered the first practical system of piped-gas lighting anywhere in the world, the house is a centre for educational and community purposes.  Murdoch House also houses the Cornish Global Migration Programme – they have a complex database containing biographical details of many thousands of Cornish migrants and can provide a link with Cornish ancestors worldwide. There is also an archive of literature, documents and artefacts which help to explain the social and economic history of the Cornish Diaspora. Visitors are welcome.

Location:   
You can find Murdoch House in Cross Street, Redruth, just behind St Rumon's Gardens. From the town car park at New Cut walk through to the main shopping street - Fore Street - walk down the hill and take the alley to  the left directly after the Boesti Cafe. Murdoch House is on your right.

Opening / Admission:
You can make an appointment to visit Murdoch House by telephoning Colin Saxton on 07511256677 and entry is free. The Cornish Migration Office is normally open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Friday mornings from 9.30 in the morning for three hours, but can open at other times by appointment. This is a free service.

What you can see / do:
On the lower floor of the house you can see an exhibition on the life and work of William Murdoch.  Tea, coffee and home-made cakes are served every Friday 9:30am - 12 midday, and craft stalls are here every Friday all-day.

The Redruth Story Group also convene in Murdoch House - organising regular exhibitions and events about the dstinct and unique history and heritage of Redruth.

In the Cornish Migration Office on the first floor you can look at the archives and meet the volunteers who will help you trace families and relatives who have emigrated.  This is home to a complex database of biographical details of many thousands of Cornish emigrants worldwide.  There is also an archive of literature, documents and artefacts.  The Management Committee is keen to promote the continued use of the house for a variety of activities and rooms can be hired at modest rates.

 Nearest Car Park / Cycle Park:
There is no parking outside the house so please park either in the St. Rumon's Social Club car park on Penryn Street or in the town's main car park in New Cut. Cycles can be left outside.

Distance from Bus or Train:
We are only a minute or two away from the railway station and main bus stops. The Town Plan at the Railway Station shows the location.

Contact Numbers:
Murdoch House: Colin Saxton on 07511256677
Cornish Global Migration Programme: 01209 215736

Web Sites:
Murdoch House: http://www.murdochhouse.org/
Cornish Global Migration Programme:   http://www.cornishmigration.org/