The Pen Museum focuses on the important legacy of Birmingham’s 19th Century pen trade and its significant contribution to improving literacy throughout the world.
The Museum narrates the interesting lives, stories and important expertise of manufacturers, owners and workers that resulted in Birmingham once manufacturing 75% of the world’s pens.
Immerse yourself in the history of the Pen Trade when Birmingham was the workshop of the world and learn of the tough working conditions of women working in its factories. Located in a former pen factory now The Argent Centre built 1863, you can experience an authentic Victorian workshop and try their hand at making a real steel pen nib and try their hand at writing with feather quills, reeds and steel nibs and can also make your own nib using traditional methods.
Explore the collection of over 5,000 objects related to the Birmingham Pen Trade. In the Jewellery Quarter the museum is just a short Metro ride from the city centre. A team of dedicated and knowledgeable volunteers are hand to help visitors get the best from their experience.
The Pen Museum will re-open in early 2021 but please see our website for the most update information and news.
Pre-booking is essential. For the safety and comfort of our visitors, staff and volunteers numbers will be limited in line with COVID19 Guidelines.
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