The exhibition focused on photographs and artefacts that were specially collected and loaned, with a focus on exhibits that had never been previously displayed in Todmorden. The most precious and special item was the illuminated book of thanks for the gift of the Town Hall, signed by hundreds of  townsfolk in 1875, and loaned by the Fielden Family. Other highlights were a ceremonial sword belonging to Thomas Fielden, son of Joshua, (loaned by a local militaria collector) and,  an original menu from 1875, and the dress made and worn by one of the steering group for the BBC production of The Clothes Show in 1985.  An extremely large, leatherbound scrap book of the Mayoral year 1965-6 (lent by the son of the Mayor in that year) proved popular with visitors, with people remembering the events, or spotting family or acquaintances in the photographs and newspaper reports. Another conversation starter were the large wooden spoons, used to serve traditional Asian food, and this could be linked back to the photo of an Asian wedding that took place in the Town Hall.

 The exhibition launch was extremely well attended, with 75 people visiting. It was then open for a few hours every day for the fortnight, and in total, 622 visitors were welcomed. The majority of the volunteers staffing the exhibition were the volunteer tour guides and had a wealth of knowledge about the building. When possible, visitors from further afield were given a quick tour of the whole building beyond just the exhibition.

 In addition, two visits by local primary schools were specially arranged, and this also encompassed a tour of the building and engaging activities.

“The exhibition has gathered every detail of the town hall and Todmorden, I learned quite a few things as well as feeling connected to the town”